Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Glittering Book Exhibitions for FS writers

It was a laudable literary occasion as an exhibition of Free State books took place at NALN in Bloemfontein. The event, dubbed the “Sesotho literature Museum in Dialogue’ took place last Friday (21st June) under the theme: “Free State Literature legacy - the case of Young Blood,” The occasion was graced by Department of Arts and Culture officials and its choir (DSACR Choir). Library services officials, Pansalb, authors and writers. The DSACR Choir entertained the guests before the starting of the actual programme, whilst the guests regaled themselves by basking in the books on display at the NALN auditorium. Big photos of well known writers were also displayed for attendees to know more about their literary icons. After the exhibition of books, Mr Montwedi Lebakeng, a conductor for the Choir led his charges for a final opening of the programme. Afterwards, the programme Director, Mr Tseliso Masolane (pix above) called Mr Mathene Mahanke, a deputy-director for Language Services to present a brief word on behalf of Mr V.S Khetha, the director for Heritage, Museums and Language Services. In his deliberations, Mr Mahanke advised local writers to hone their craft even more and improve fastidiously in the process. He said the exhibition was revelatory. “This is the beginning of very big things to come for our writers if they take this opportunity seriously,” Mr Masolane pointed out that Ntate Mahanke had played a pivotal role by laying remembrance stones of the history of the Museum back in 2006. Additionally, as a way of reviving the spirit of reading, Masolane read a poem from Staffriders poetry book, churned out by erstwhile great writers. There was an ‘open mic’ session for poetry renditions performed by proficient poets like Job Mzamo, “Magic” Khotseng, T. Cap and the precocious Dr Cool. Mme Dunne presented her speech on behalf of publishing houses. She answered questions from the floor about book publication and relevant processes to be followed. Such questions included why an author might be saddled with lesser benefits compared to publishers. Mr Mzamo encouraged publishers and writers to know their rights and responsibilities when they sign a contract. Mr Masolane played a screen video about the life and times of Mr. Thomas Mokopu Mofolo, one of the distinguished literary icons, to motivate burgeoning writers. Meanwhile, Mr Zak Montewa, acting Assistant Director at Provincial Museum, gave the vote of thanks. By Raselebeli Khotseng (Courtesy Free State News)