Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) Centre for Art Education kicks off a series of four illustrated children’s books marking a first for the Zeitz this August. This first of many affirms its mission to create a museum space that is also inclusive of children. Now parents can enjoy the cultural experience of the incredible museum with their tots being entertained.
The four stories in the series – The Tale of Mouse and the Stories that Ran Away, First Light, Nya Nya Bulembu, and Khvum and the Crocodile Woman – are written by Meridian Berndt and illustrated by artists, Jax Lamb, Meridian Berndt, Jill Joubert, and designer Mandy Wamono.
The journey of the books in this series began with the museum’s first exhibition for children that opened back in September 2019, And So the Stories Ran Away (ASSRA).
‘Stories from Africa’
The Tale of Mouse and the Stories that Ran Away, First Light, Nya Nya Bulembu and Khvum and the Crocodile Woman are reimaginings of four stories from different parts of Africa that speak of beginnings, creation and transformation with each book celebrating nature and the natural order of life.
This interactive exhibition of seventeen artworks and installations was exhibited in the tunnels on Level -1 of the museum. The theme of ‘stories from Africa’ informed the content of the ASSRA exhibition and artists could choose myths, legends, historical events, and contemporary or personal stories to inspire their artworks.
‘How Stories Came Among Men’ is a Nigerian folktale that became the ‘framing’ story for the ASSRA exhibition in addition to three origin stories from Central Africa, South Africa, and Swaziland were chosen as the first stories for the children’s book series that the museum has published and will now launch.
Carlo Daniels is a multi-award-winning performer, director and writer. He will bring together some supporting performers to bring The Tale of Mouse and The Stories that Ran Away to life for children, and families.
You can also purchase a book at the Zeitz MOCAA Shop for the special launch price of R150 per book, while the full set will also be available in a beautiful slipcover for R600.
The event is FREE but booking is essential. Book your ticket here.
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Feature image: Supplied
