Born in Nyanga, Cape Town, Thandeka Mfinyongo is an African musician, scholar, and lecturer in African Music and Ethnomusicology at North-West University. Can a musical instrument preserve history? For Mfinyongo, the answer is a resounding yes.

Her exhibition, Umzila (The Legacy), currently on show at the NWU Gallery in Potchefstroom, explores the Xhosa musical bow, the uhadi, as far more than an instrument. Through handcrafted bows and a compelling video installation documenting their creation, the exhibition reveals how Indigenous knowledge, cultural identity and lived experience are preserved through both sound and craftsmanship.

Her work bridges tradition and innovation, combining African musical practices with contemporary artistic expression while celebrating the richness of Indigenous heritage.

In this episode of OFM Art Beat, Mfinyongo joins Yolanda Maartens to discuss the inspiration behind Umzila, the significance of the uhadi, and why preserving cultural knowledge through art remains as important as ever.

Umzila (The Legacy) is on exhibition at the NWU Gallery in Potchefstroom until 11 September.

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