Poetic Injustice:
Memorializing the untold stories of Fish Keitseng and the Medu Art Ensemble
My project delves into the tragic event of the June 14, 1985, raid on the township of Peleng, Lobatse, investigating its roots, unfolding, and effects on the victims. Utilizing forensic architecture, inspired by Eyal Wiezman, my findings revolve around three key aspects: raid, aftermath, and trauma.
The focus is on the Medu Arts Ensemble, a movement that met its untimely end during this raid. Thamisanqa ‘Thami’ Mnyele, a key artist, lost his life, and Jonas Gwangwa, a musician, narrowly escaped. The ensemble serves as the inspiration for my design, incorporating the principles of art, music, and poetry.
The Fish Keitseng Monument, my first intervention site, embodies the principle of art. Serving as a sanctuary during the Ensemble’s inception, art became a means of escape from harsh realities.
The river canal, my second site, represents the music principle, bridging art and poetry. It symbolizes time, mirroring the structure of a song: hardship, climax, and a hopeful ending.
Peleng Hill, the third site, embodies poetry. A vital element of storytelling, poetry signifies hope and triumph over adversity.
