Empowering Hands: Creating N’wana Figures, Creating Ourselves

The purpose of this workshop is to put into practice a social justice fashion-based approach, based on embedded knowledge / plural histories / and fashion democratization.  Kimberly Bediako, Tinyiko Baloyi, and Dr. Khaya Mchunu, who will facilitate the workshop invite creators to explore the fascinating world of the Tsonga “N’wana", a figure steeped in tradition and brimming with stories. N’wana figures are more than just toys; they are companions on life's journey, symbolising childhood playfulness, the learning of essential skills, and the transition into adulthood with new families. They are deeply connected to sacred rituals and beliefs, holding a special place in Tsonga cosmology.

Through hands-on creation using figure-making techniques and found objects, creators will unlock the rich cultural heritage woven into each N’wana figure. This workshop is a journey of self-discovery, where creators will explore personal narratives and express unique identities through the art of figure-making. The workshop experience includes delving into the significance of cultural traditions, opening doors to diverse perspectives, and celebrating the power of inclusivity in design.

Participants are asked to collect and to bring the following materials:
- A textile or two that has some significance to you which you don’t mind cutting up. This can be an old garment, blanket, towel, found textile, etc. 
- A cylindric object/tube. This can be a toilet roll tube, Pringle package, anything that carried this shape        and can fit into your hand. 
- A handful of found objects to embellish the figure. 

Kimberly Bediako, Tinyiko Baloyi and Dr. Khaya Mchunu are lecturers in the Department of Fashion Design of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.