Louise Irvine
The Spirit of Ubuntu is spreading in South Florida. The ancient African philosophy translates to “I am because we are” or “We are because of others,” which is the affirmation of the Ardmore community in KwaZulu-Natal. This guiding principle has become a way of life for the successful South African ceramic art studio. The results of Ardmore’s collaborative endeavors over the last 40 years are on view in the Safari for the Soul gallery at WMODA in Hollywood, as well as the new Jabula exhibition at the Benzaiten Center for the Creative Arts in Lake Worth Beach.
Fée Halsted, Ardmore’s founder, is committed to creating an environment where individuals thrive by supporting one another. Each unique ceramic work of art is a team effort, from the thrower who forms the vessel on the potter’s wheel, to the sculptor who models the flora and fauna, to the painter who details the fine fur, feathers, and flower petals. Every piece is signed by its contributing artists, recognizing the individual craftsmanship. Fée, who is also the creative director of Ardmore, flits between the painting and sculpture studios, offering guidance and advice but allowing as much artistic freedom as possible.
During her career, Fée has mentored hundreds of people in her remote rural community, helping them discover their artistic talents and instilling self-esteem. She has encouraged them to use their imaginations, seeking inspiration in Zulu folklore and traditions, or the beautiful natural world that surrounds them. Fée has been described as “a creator of artists” and has received numerous awards for her pioneering work. In 2010, she was recognized by Women’s Campaign International in New York for empowering women, and in 2021, she was awarded the South African Presidential Award, ‘The Order of Ikhamanga’ in silver for her contribution to the visual arts and generous transfer of skills to others.
Former South African President Nelson Mandela is widely regarded as the embodiment of Ubuntu, as he used this concept to lead his country through a peaceful post-apartheid transition. He can be seen at the top of the powerful Abundance sculpture in the Ardmore Gallery at WMODA, which was exhibited during the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban in 2011 (COP 17). Also featured is Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, who led the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 1996. The late Archbishop touched on the meaning of Ubuntu when he said, “We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, whereas you are connected and what you do affects the whole world.” Ubuntu is a reminder that no one is an island, and it “takes a village to raise a child,” to quote another popular African proverb, which highlights the importance of collective responsibility.
The ethos of community, traditional values, together with a celebration of Zulu culture, can be appreciated year-round in the Ardmore gallery at WMODA. This summer, residents in Palm Beach County can also enjoy the new Jabula exhibition of Ardmore ceramic art at the Benzaiten Center for the Creative Arts in Lake Worth Beach. This multilayered Afrocentric show is a highlight of Benzaiten’s Cultural Legacy Program, featuring Anthony Burks, an African-American artist specializing in depictions of nature, wildlife, and the African diaspora.
Read more
Life Lessons – Ubuntu
It Takes a Village – Ardmore
Abundance for Earth Day – Ardmore
