Leon Buchner, Western Cape Education Department senior curriculum planner (design and visual arts), who was the moderator, was most impressed with the work. "There has been a turnabout from the previous year's standards. It is not only dramatic, but remarkable." This high praise was a source of pride to Deputy-Headmaster, Christoffer Fongqo.
The work was exhibited briefly in the George Museum.
The Grade 12 arts teacher Sityhilelo Beza admitted that he is a hard taskmaster and that he has thrown the door wide open for themes ranging from protest art to religion, gender issues, politics and topical, everyday issues.
The paintings reflect the starkness both here and in the rest of the country.
One oil painting shows a rape in progress and several a crucifixion.
There are even two of President Jacob Zuma who has not been spared and has words spelling out the corruption and mismanagement of the country.
One boy shows his mother dying of aids. In a triptych he tells the story of how he has to now raise his siblings. Buchner said that art has a tremendous therapeutic value for the pupils who have a lot to cope with in their lives.
Despite the gloom depicted in the paintings, the children beamed when asked how they feel about the road ahead and all believe that a bright future lies ahead of them.
Western Cape Education Department Moderator Leon Buchner (centre) praised the work of the Grade 12 Thembalethu art pupils, which has improved immensely from last year. With him is Deputy-Headmaster Christoffer Fongqo (left) and art teacher Sityhilelo Beza.
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