By Saul Molobi
Ntokozo Buthelezi is an artist whose work transcends the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship, merging art with social advocacy. Her art is characterized by a profound commitment to addressing social issues, particularly those affecting women and children. Using materials like fibre strings and galvanised wire, she transforms everyday objects into powerful symbols of resilience and empowerment.
Her creations are not just visual experiences but dialogues that invite viewers to contemplate deeper societal messages. Each piece is meticulously woven, reflecting her background and the influence of the women in her life, who used sewing as a means of bonding and survival. This personal history infuses her art with authenticity and emotional depth, making her work both relatable and inspiring.
Ntokozo’s art is a testament to her belief in the power of education and community support as tools for social change. Her projects, like “A Stitch in Time”, emphasise early intervention and the empowerment of young women and children. By blending artistic expression with activism, she creates artworks that are as much about aesthetic beauty as they are about fostering a more equitable and just society.
“Growing up in a household where sewing was a fundamental part of life, I came to see the act of stitching as a metaphor for healing and strengthening. The delicate threads my grandmother and mother used to create beautiful garments were the same threads that bound our family together, instilling values of patience, precision, and perseverance,” Ntokozo reflects.
“This project, ‘A Stitch in Time,’ is deeply rooted in these early experiences. It is a tribute to the women who came before me and a pledge to the generations that will follow. The chicken wire, once a symbol of confinement, is transformed into a framework for empowerment. Each thread woven into it represents a story, a struggle, a triumph of a young woman or child who has faced societal barriers and emerged stronger.”
Ntokozo’s project is not merely about creating art; it is about fostering a community of support and education. “By providing young women and children with the tools they need — whether they are educational resources, vocational training, or emotional support — we are stitching a fabric of resilience and hope. We are teaching them that they have the power to mend the gaps in their lives and to create new patterns of success.”
One of the core components of ‘A Stitch in Time’ is its outreach programs, which include workshops and mentorship initiatives. “Through these programs, we connect young women with role models from various fields — science, technology, arts, and business. These interactions are crucial in broadening their horizons and showing them the diverse possibilities that await them. We also emphasise the importance of self-expression and creativity, encouraging them to use their voices and talents to advocate for themselves and their communities.”
Ntokozo is passionate about the transformative power of education. “Education is the thread that binds our social fabric. It is through learning that we can challenge the status quo, break down barriers, and build a more inclusive society. By equipping young women and children with knowledge and skills, we are empowering them to shape their own destinies.”
The impact of ‘A Stitch in Time’ is already evident. “We have seen remarkable changes in the lives of those who have participated in our programs. Young women who once felt trapped by their circumstances are now pursuing higher education, starting their own businesses, and becoming leaders in their communities. Children who lacked confidence are now speaking out against injustices and advocating for their rights. These success stories are the stitches that hold the fabric of our project together.”
Ntokozo is committed to expanding the reach of ‘A Stitch in Time.’ “Our vision is to create a global network of empowered young women and children who support each other and work collectively to address the challenges they face. We are continuously seeking partnerships with organizations and individuals who share our mission and values. Together, we can create a tapestry of change that spans continents and cultures.”
As we look to the future, Ntokozo’s message is clear: “We must not wait for problems to become crises before we act. By addressing issues early and providing the support needed to overcome them, we can create a world where every young woman and child has the opportunity to thrive. ‘A Stitch in Time’ is my contribution to this vision, and I invite everyone to join us in this journey of empowerment and transformation.”
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For more information, please contact:
Mandy Beck
Director
Legacy Art Collection
Gallery
Email: mandy@legacyartcollection.co.za
Mobile: +27 72 513 4755
Physical Address: 27, 6th street, Parkhurst, JOHANNESBURG, South Africa