Elijar Mushiana
Elijar Mushiana
A Limpopo pensioner, Noria Mabasa, described as "multitalented", yesterday received a surprise second visit from Deputy Arts and Culture Minister Ntombazana Botha, who praised the 68-year-old's efforts to improve rural lives.
Mabasa, a potter and sculptor working from her home in Tshino-Vuwani near Thohoyandou, has been recognised internationally for her efforts to promote art and culture.
She has exhibited her work in Namibia, Britain, Holland, Belgium and "so many other countries I can't recall them all".
On a previous visit, Botha planted a tree as a sign of support for Mabasa's centre.
In 2003 she started classes to train people in pottery and sculpture. She also coaches young artists, giving them skills to develop their own dreams.
Streets and roads in Limpopo and Gauteng have been named after her in recognition of her contributions.
Botha said the government wants more people to use Mabasa's gallery to gain expertise.
During her special visit to Limpopo, the deputy minister also visited Mukondeni Pottery, Mashamba Art Gallery, and Lemana Multi-Purpose Community Centre.