The University of Pretoria’s Javett Art Centre is gearing up to celebrate Human Rights Day with a unique event titled Tour and Taste: The Purple Plate. This event promises to merge art and culinary storytelling in a way that will captivate visitors and provide them with a rich sensory experience.
Acting CEO at Javett-UP, Jackie Rens, expressed excitement about the innovative approach of combining art with culinary experiences. This fusion will not only deepen the connection between guests and the artwork but also shed light on the rich history embedded in these cultural products that define our nation.
Set against the backdrop of the current exhibition at Javett-UP, We, The Purple, the event aims to combine cultural enrichment, culinary enjoyment, and visual engagement of art. Guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a sensory experience that intertwines art, food, and the history of the city and country.
The We, The Purple exhibition has been running at the Javett Art Centre since September 2024 and will conclude at the end of May. The event on Human Rights Day will bring the moving work from the exhibition into conversation with Chef Gontse Mai, who will curate the culinary experience.
Chef Gontse Mai, the mastermind behind Oh Mai Catering, expressed her excitement about partnering with Javett-UP for this milestone event. Oh Mai Catering, established in 2022, is known for crafting culinary experiences that tell stories through food and make it a part of the conversation.
The culinary journey at Tour and Taste: The Purple Plate will feature South African favorites with a creative twist, including Mopane worms, biltong, and unique pairings with thyme. Traditional treats like vetkoek, koeksisters, and sponge cake will round off the experience, providing guests with a taste of South African heritage.
The art showcased in the We, The Purple exhibition reflects the evolution of Pretoria, its people, protests, and progress. Artists like Moshekwa Langa, Gerad Sekoto, and Walter Oltmann contribute to the complex tapestry of South Africa’s history, celebrating triumphs and acknowledging ongoing struggles since 1994.
Selected works from collections housed at Javett-UP and other museums within the city will be on display, fostering dialogue, reflection, and artistic expression. Artists such as Simon Lekgetho, Gladys Mgudlandlu, and Maggie Laubser will be featured, drawing from prestigious collections like the Javett Family Collection and the South32 Collection.
Tour and Taste: The Purple Plate promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience that seamlessly blends art, food, and history to create a truly memorable event in celebration of Human Rights Day.
