Art tells a memorable tale of mine workers’ plight
The artistic works of former mineworker and now sculptor Louis Chamane, from the Ramaphosa Informal Settlement, can now be seen in the Constitution Hill Precinct.
His collection, known as Abasebenzi (a Zulu word for ”The Workers”) was revealed in a private ceremony at The Precinct, in Braamfontein, on September 1.
The Precinct is a prominent symbol for the story of South Africa’s struggle for democracy. The collection depicts familiar details of the role and functions of miners.
Chamane’s work was purchased by the Mineworkers Investment Company and donated to The Precinct in a celebration of being the first contemporary endowment to the heritage site.
The 57-year-old Chamane was retrenched in 1995, from his job as an electrician on a gold mine in Boksburg, where he had worked for 11 years.
“I always had passion for art, even while I was working, so after I was retrenched I focused more on my talent,” he said.
He learned to be a sculptor during his school days and, with the help of his elders, he managed to refine his artistic skills.
“I create art because this is my passion. I can also tell a unique story through my collections,” he said.
He now has his own workshop at the Oldin Post Office Theatre, where he makes magic happens.
Although he was only recently discovered, Chamane’s sculptures have been lauded as a necessary collection.
Themba Ntuli, the acting CEO of Constitution Hill, said: “Visitors on walking tours of Constitution Hill will learn about the importance of human rights for mine workers through the creations of Chamane.
“Constitution Hill has a significant linkage with mine workers, who, historically in 1913 and 1922, were incarcerated behind these same prison walls.
“These sculptures will play an imperative role in telling both the story of Constitution Hill, and of mine workers in South Africa.”
Chamane said that, through the collection, he wants to place a spotlight on the plight of mine workers who suffer harsh working conditions underground.
“I’m happy knowing that people will be able to share in this story at such an important place,” he said.
The CEO of the Mineworkers Investment Company, Mary Bomela, said: “Indeed, I hope Abasebenzi will create awareness of the key role labour plays in uplifting every industry, to work together in creating wealth for our economy.”
