MAHIKENG MAIL - MAHIKENG: John Kambule, a 56-year-old artist from Klerksdorp, has created an ancient ship artwork symbolising South Africa’s new dawn with the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The ship represents the country’s journey through history, highlighting resilience and spirit. Kambule’s masterpiece reflects on the nation’s seven administrations since democracy and the recent 2024 elections, which led to the GNU.
The GNU, formed by 10 political parties, aims to tackle South Africa’s challenges through inclusive growth, poverty reduction and building a capable state.
Kambule’s artwork reflects on the past while considering the future, serving as a beacon of hope and promoting dialogue on identity, governance and shared history. As for whether the GNU is an answer to South Africa’s problems, it’s a complex issue with multiple perspectives, as per Kambule’s design of a ship that will either sink or float.
Q:What inspired you to create this masterpiece?
“I drew inspiration from the tireless efforts of South Africa’s “Noble Peace” achievers, who worked selflessly to create a new, peaceful nation. Their vision of a harmonious future for all, where we see ourselves as one nation, one people with one voice, drove me to create this artwork. However, 30 years on, I’ve noticed a divergence from their ideals, which concerns me deeply and prompted this project.
Q:Can you describe your artwork?
I’ve crafted an ancient ship, reminiscent of those that arrived in 1652, symbolising transformation. This ship represents a call to action for government, organisations, communities, and stakeholders to collaborate in restoring a peaceful South Africa. It’s a reminder that, despite our diversity, we are one people, one nation, with one voice.
Q:What do you hope to accomplish with your artwork?
I aspire to inspire unity, better living standards, and core values like caring, sharing, and respect. I want to showcase this artwork on national media platforms and present it to parliamentarians, emphasising its relevance to citizens. My goal is to assure South Africans that there’s hope in unity.
Q:How does your artwork predict the future?
My artwork suggests that self-reflection and introspection can help achieve our stalwarts’ vision. I foresee a beautiful Republic of South Africa, where unity and the spirit of Ubuntu/Botho overcome challenges. I believe the GNU will address pressing issues, igniting timely solutions.
Q:What made you create this ?
I began working on this project on Nelson Mandela Day, 18 July 2024, and completed it in August 2025, pouring my heart into reviving Mandela’s beliefs and ideologies.
I want this master piece of art to send a stern warning to those in power, that if this country’s sensitive issues (such as corruption, maladministration, poor governance, unemployed youth, GBV, crime, drugs and illegal immigrants and guns, and the like) aren’t addressed speedily and amicably, the ship may sink.
The artwork masterpiece is made of waste and raw materials which includes strictly used Lion matches sticks, Typeck boxes, Dowels sticks, white linen cloth, toothpicks, sausage picks, Tongue sticks, twine rope and pine wood sheet.
Its length is 2.17m, width 160 mm, height 1.2m, and body length 600mm.
