Free Language and Free Culture

CCAC #: 0461q
Artwork title: Free Language and Free Culture
Artist(s): Thamsanqa Thami Jali
Year made: 2004
Artwork type: Sculpture or object
Medium: Sandblasted onto window panels
Dimensions (mm): 841 x 594
Artwork series: Images of Human Rights print portfolio – Great African Steps window application
Source: Installation commissioned by the Architectural Artworks Committee, with permission of the Human Rights Trust
Year acquired: 2004
Installation type: Integrated artwork
Current location: On public display
Signage:

The work celebrates South Africa’s rich diversity and the unity at the heart of this constitutional clause. Three women of different races gather under an umbrella—a symbol of inclusion—while dancers rejoice in the promise of a brighter future. The architecture blends Islamic, Western, and African elements, reflecting cultural coexistence.

Themes: Bill of Rights
Constitutional links: Rights of cultural, religious and linguistic communities (section 31)
Language and culture rights (section 30)
Related constitutional cases: Hoërskool Ermelo and Another v Head of Department of Education: Mpumalanga and Others (2009)
Chairperson of the Council of UNISA v AfriForum NPC (2021)
Qwelane v South African Human Rights Commission (2021)
Gelyke Kanse v Stellenbosch University (2019)
AfriForum v University of the Free State (2018)

CCAC 432732

Photographer: Staff
Photo copyright: CCT

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