For Nomfundo Mohlala, art and freedom are an artistic dance, intertwined—bringing opportunity for the future while not shying away from the injustices of South Africa’s past.
Mohlala, 32, believes 
that if it were not for the freedom the country now enjoys, she may never have had the opportunity to fully embrace the art sector—a journey that led to her earning a Diploma in Fine Arts from the Tshwane University of Technology and seeing her pieces exhibited and sold at the Javett-UP Museum in Pretoria, Gauteng.
“In my artistic development, freedom has played a huge role because, as a black female artist, it has allowed me to experiment without fear, to go to school, and explore different mediums.
“Having the freedom to create on my own terms has helped me find my voice… Freedom has allowed me to grow as an artist and given me the chance to not be afraid of taking risks,” said Mohlala.
As the country marks Freedom Month in April, government remains committed to serving all people of South Africa and ensuring that everyone’s rights to freedom and democracy are upheld.
Freedom Day, commemorated on 27 April, marks the day South Africa held its first democratic election, in which people of all races could vote. This historic event signalled the official end of apartheid.
“To me, Freedom Month is a reminder of our nation’s past, present, and future—a time to remember the conflict and resilience of those who came before us, those who fought to be heard, to be treated fairly, and to be equal.”
Mohlala says her artistic journey led to an opportunity at the Javett-UP Museum, where she participated in the Tlhagella Incubation Programme, supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.
The support enabled Javett-UP to provide artists like Mohlala with logistical assistance, curatorial guidance, marketing materials, and a stipend to help cover their costs—ensuring they had everything they needed to present their work at its best.
Mohlala’s work was featured in Cultural Spaces, an exhibition showcasing the Tlhagella Incubation Programme’s Top 10 Artists. Her unique pieces have even inspired an exclusive merchandise collection of ceramics now available for purchase at the Javett-UP shop.
“Having my work sold at the Javett-UP Museum is a deeply meaningful milestone—it’s not just a sale. It represents recognition: my work has been appreciated not only artistically, but culturally.
“The Javett-UP Museum is an institution of preservation, education, and storytelling. So, when my artwork was sold through them, I was blown away. It means that my voice and vision are part of something bigger—something worth telling and remembering,” she concluded.
To reach Mohlala or view some of her work visit her Instagram page: fufu.marshall
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