Nal’ibali chatted to Cobi Labuscagne recently about her book Explore! Awesome South African Artists.

This funky children’s book introduces kids to the local art scene, featuring information and work by South Africa’s finest living contemporary artists, like William Kentridge, Nandipha Mntambo and Penny Siopis, Banele Khoza, Zander Blom, Billie Zangewa and many many more.

Labuscagne says a number of people are finding the book to be a useful homeschooling tool during lockdown:

What message do you hope to spread about creativity?

A main message in the book and in my life in general is to focus attention on the importance of creative processes and ‘making’ for kids and adults. This involves both our own creativity and the support and appreciation of those who work in the creative industries professionally. I believe that there is so much to be learnt from the process orientation that comes with making as well as the curiosity that comes with learning creative skills. This for me is a life-work, rather than something that should be boxed as just for those who are ‘talented’.

What kind of feedback have you had?

I have been amazed how many adults have said the book is not just for children if you are interested in learning about art and artists in South Africa. Many have started using it in homeschooling or to supplement the art education that their children receive at school.

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Nal’ibali (isiXhosa for ‘here’s the story’) is a national reading-for-enjoyment campaign to spark children’s potential through storytelling and reading. Reading and telling stories with your children is a powerful gift. It builds knowledge, language, imagination and school success. For more information about the Nal’ibali campaign or to access children’s stories in a range of SA languages, visit www.nalibali.org.

Categories Lifestyle Non-fiction South Africa

Tags Art Childrens books Childrens literature Cobi Labuscagne Explore! Awesome South African Artists Jacana Media Nal'ibali