- Esther Mahlangu has received an honorary doctorate in mathematics from UNISA.
- Her iconic paintings are not only about art, they also have mathematical elements.
- Esther Mahlangu partnered with international brands because of her skill.
Family, friends and supporters gathered at the UNISA campus in Pretoria to celebrate another accolade for Esther Mahlangu as she was awarded a degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics (Honoris Causa).
The award ceremony began with a speech from one of UNISA’s executive staff, who introduced Esther Mahlangu and highlighted her journey as a visual artist. She began her visual arts journey at the age of 10. She is yet to celebrate her 89th birthday this year and she has reached many milestones in her nearly nine decades of living.
Esther Mahlangu’s Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics is not only an accolade for her artwork and creativity but also for the mathematical elements that were discovered in her works.
“Mathematical concepts have greatly influenced art,” says Dr Melusi Khumalo from UNISA, explaining how Esther Mahlangu's artworks comprise mathematical theories such as calculus.
Her work has been used in both local and global museums, which artworks comprise paintings using the Ndebele indigenous patterns painted on walls, ceramic pots, sneakers, car doors, bicycles, motorbikes and skateboards. She has also collaborated with many art directors and both public and private companies such as British Airways, Belvedere Vodka, Freshpak Rooibos, BMW and Rolls Royce.
This image was used as a reference to Esther Mahlangu’s artwork.
When broken down into mathematical concepts, the artwork consists of linearity, linear perspectives, symmetry and shading. It is not just about taking a paintbrush or pen and drawing, mentions Dr Khumalo.
“At this moment, I would like to say I am proud to be an African, I am proud to be an African Mathematician,” Dr Khumalo adds.
The crowds cheered, applauded, whistled, and ululated when Esther Mahlangu stepped onto the stage to receive her honorary doctorate from the vice chancellor of UNISA, Professor Puleng LenkaBula.
Lotjani Nonke! Esther Mahlangu said, greeting the attendees Ndebele.
She then said a few words, giving gratitude and sharing inspiration to many that it is never too late to achieve your dreams.
“Ngijabulile ukuba nani namhlanje la. Azanke ngikhe ngiye eskolweni mina ngeskathi seskolo. Namhlanja ke ngizo thatha impura mpura,” Esther Mahlangu said, explaining how she never had any formal education when growing up. She says she used to stay at home and draw, and many were mocking her. But she is now here wearing a graduation gown and collecting a qualification.
