“It also makes information accessible so that everyone can learn and experience different cultures, and different aspects of our world,” said Oliewenhuis Art Museum education officer, Baitumetse Moloabi.

The institution, located in Bloemfontein, is observing International Museum Day on Monday (18/5), under the global theme, Uniting a Divided World. The focus is on historical and cultural preservation to create accessible educational opportunities, thereby bridging societal gaps without removing cultural differences.

Collections

“Art is beautiful and is for everyone; it expresses the world in such a beautiful way,” said Moloabi.

To achieve representation across communities, the museum compiles collections featuring South African artists from diverse backgrounds, including self-taught people and established professionals, who document regional histories.

Regarding stereotypes positioning museums as passive storage spaces, Moloabi said the institution operates a Mobile Art Museum initiative, which transports artworks directly to schools and remote communities across the Free State. 

In this way, interactive lessons are facilitated where participants experience art through production and direct engagement.

In alignment with global objectives to reduce inequalities and enhance cultural access, the museum maintains public grounds for communal use, provides guided tours, and stations its mobile division in under-resourced areas, providing access for people lacking the means to travel.

The exhibitions on-site focus on historical milestones, including themes relating to Freedom Day and public education, showing regional heritage to locals.

The museum invites the public to actively participate by exploring four exhibitions currently on display: Freedom: The Art of Choosing Together, Timeless, Uhambo Lwemi Moya by Quincy Mbuso Hlongwa, and À??´: Grounded in Being, Rising in Thought"

The International Council of Museums has launched a new interactive map for International Museum Day. This platform gives a comprehensive overview, showing the diverse range of activities taking place worldwide. 

Museums, galleries, and cultural institutions around the globe are invited to participate and present their unique initiatives.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane dg

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