Andile Dyalvane (born 1978) creates complex ceramic art­ works that can be read as metaphorical objects in which he reflects on the deep spiritual band to his Xhosa ancestors (one of the ethnic groups in South Africa). This goes hand in hand with the artist’s great fascination with nature, something to be discerned in his 2022 piece entitled “iYuku” (Baby Bird) from his “iNgqweji” (Bird’s Nest) series. Here, Dyalvane draws on the creativity and artistry of weaverbirds for inspiration. The birds weave large communal nests that can today be seen hanging from power pylons rather than trees, a prime symbol of Nature’s intelligent adaptation to a changed environment and thus habitat.

Madoda Fani (born 1975) initially studied Graphic Design before devoting himself to ceramics. Although Fani makes use of traditional techniques such as smoke-firing and burnishing, his curved and coiled shapes with their incised embellish­ ments are completely of his own creation. In the form of “Akahluwa” (The Undefeated), in 2022 he produced an organi­cally shaped vessel whose smooth surfaces are interrupted
by abstract, scale-like patterns, conjuring up associations with the world of domestic reptiles or insects.

Zizipho Poswa (born 1979) trained as a textile designer who, in her ceramic works, concerns herself with the role of Xhosa women in Africa today. Her ceramic entitled “Amancanca, Xhosa”, made in 2022, is part of her “uBuhle boKhokho” (Beauty of Our Ancestors) series in which she reinterprets historical and contemporary African hairstyles. In this way, Poswa interweaves the personal and the historical, consciously taking her place in a huge, ever­ growing network of African women who questions their own norms of beauty.

Thanks to Duke Franz of Bavaria for loaning us these objects and for his generous support and funding of Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum.