Generations in Conversation: Mentorship and memory in One and the Many

On Saturday, 27 September 2025, the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria hosted the first installment of the One and the Many Conversations series — Part 1: Intergenerational Dialogue Through Learning, Exchange and Mentorship.

This inaugural discussion created a space for artists, students, scholars and art enthusiasts to reflect on the ways mentorship, kinship and collaboration have shaped South African art history. The conversation built on themes from the exhibition One and the Many, which looks at art history through the vantage point of artists, exploring personal and collective experiences, influence, and intergenerational dialogue.

Moderated by Prof. Nomusa Makhubu and our own Puleng Plessie, Curator of Education and Public Programming at Javett-UP, the session featured distinguished artists Bongi Dhlomo, Pat Mautloa and Johannes Phokela. They are veterans whose careers have paved the way for generations of contemporary artists. Their reflections underscored the importance of peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and the generosity that binds the South African art community.

The day was marked by meaningful dialogue, storytelling and shared reflection,  moments that reminded us that art is not only made in studios, but also in the relationships and exchanges that sustain creative practice. Through these connections, histories are passed down, new ideas are born, and artistic legacies are carried forward.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, engaged and contributed to this conversation. Your presence made this gathering not only insightful, but deeply affirming of the role art spaces play in connecting generations of artists and thinkers.

A special thank you to our partner, the Australian High Commission in South Africa, for their generous support in making this programme possible.

Stay tuned for details on the next conversation, and join us as we continue to explore the many stories, influences and collaborations that connect us all.