by Phaphama Tshisikhawe and Kgaugelo Selane
The Tshwane University of Technology embarked on a bold strategic initiative to establish Research Niche Areas that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These seven niche areas are carefully designed to address South Africa’s most pressing challenges while driving economic development. Each niche area focuses on conducting research that is locally impactful, nationally significant, and globally relevant, contributing positively to the University’s reputation and the betterment of society.
Research Niche Area Leader in the Faculty of Arts Prof Anne Mastamet-Mason.
Today, we look at the Faculty of Arts and Design research niche area, under the leadership of Prof Anne Mastamet-Mason, Artivism as a Tool to Combat Gender-Based Violence.
This niche area explores the transformative power of art in addressing GBV through Artivism - the intersection of art and activism. It focuses on how creative expressions, such as visual arts, performance arts, literature and multimedia, can raise awareness, challenge societal norms, amplify marginalised voices and promote healing and empowerment.
This niche area seeks to empower individuals and communities affected by GBV while advocating for meaningful societal change. It also contributes to academic scholarship and trauma-informed approaches in addressing GBV in South Africa.
Key Objectives
Research in this niche area aims to:
- Examine the role of Artivism as a transformative approach to addressing GBV.
- Explore how Artivist initiatives challenge societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate GBV.
- Investigate the impact of Artivism on raising awareness and promoting dialogue about GBV.
- Analyse how Artivism fosters healing and empowerment for GBV survivors.
- Address intersectionality by considering the experiences of women of colour, LGBTQ+ individuals and persons with disabilities.
- Assess the effectiveness of art-based interventions in preventing GBV and promoting social change.
- Promote collaboration with artists, activists and community organisations to co-create inclusive Artivist interventions.
- Develop trauma-informed approaches that support healing and recovery through Artivism.
- Bridge academia and practice by enhancing Artivist interventions on the ground.
- Contribute to the body of knowledge on GBV and Artivism in a South African context.
Products and Services
- Development of a Collaborative Hub: A platform for researchers and artists to co-create innovative and impactful interventions.
- Community Engagement: Partnerships with communities to raise awareness and drive social change.
Postgraduate Research in Progress: - Lebogang Setlhabane: Exploring Netspeak in GBV-related social media communication (Doctor of Language Practice).
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with institutions like UNISA and UWC, government, industry, and NGOs to amplify impact.
Aligned with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), this niche area leverages the power of art to advocate for gender equality and combat GBV, promoting a society where all individuals can thrive.