On 3 September, the University of Pretoria (UP) Museums hosted a screening of Lan moon may la dunde? as part of its Heritage Month programme. The work, created by South African artist Wezile Harmans, invited students and staff to reflect on heritage, identity, and memory.
The title, translated from Wolof as “what kept you alive”, comes from Harmans’ research stay in Dakar, Senegal, where he observed artisans weaving fabrics using skills passed down through generations. Reflecting on his inspiration, Harmans said, “The work is inspired by exploring the transmission of knowledge within communities. Art is a catalyst for conversation, reflection, and participation.”
Harmans explained that his practice defines heritage not as a fixed object but as lived memory. “Heritage is a memory, a practice of remembrance,” he said. How each individual views and interprets the video work is in their own hands.
UP Museums is still hosting events during Heritage Month that are meant to start conversations about heritage. For some students, these events bring heritage into focus in different ways. Amira Mudau, a third-year Theology and Religion student, said, “One of the biggest parts of being in this university is that you never know people’s heritage or culture unless you speak to them.” She added that if your heritage is part of who you are, then let it be part of your everyday life. It is in every individual’s hands how they want to tackle their heritage.
For international students, the reflections on heritage take different shapes. Tanasha Emmanuel, a second-year student in Visual Arts, said, “I do not celebrate that. Not because I was told not to or I do not value my heritage, but I just don’t see the need.” He continued, saying that the only time he cares about sharing his culture or seeing a representation of his culture or heritage is during the International Student Day.
Through different perspectives from artists and students alike, the screening and related Heritage Month activities highlight how heritage is understood and expressed differently across UP’s diverse community. Whether through film, daily practices, or personal choices, these conversations highlight the various ways that heritage continues to live and shift within the university.
