By Anga-Anganda Bushwana
“It’s open to all kinds of practitioners,” states the Festival programme description for the creative workshop held by legendary singer-songwriter, Asanda Lusaseni Mvana (known professionally as Msaki). And that’s just what it is; a workshop for all.
Msaki starts with the humble introduction, “Hello everyone, my name is Asanda”. It is her down-to-earth character, the traditional African food of uLusu and umngqusho that she prepares for all participants, the calming presence of her Sangoma (Makhosi KHYNSA), and her taking the time to get to know each one of us by name, that set the tone for the intimate and productive Quantum Creativity Workshop.
Through guided prompts and meditation, the workshop explores art and music as a spiritual practice and space for healing. We are urged to connect with our inner child, and unpack the parts of the self we often struggle to connect with on a daily basis. It is an invigorating process.
The SAMA award-winning, East London-born artist describes Makhanda as holding a special place in her heart. “This place is like my home. I went to St Andrew’s preparatory school, and in high school, I attended Diocesan School for Girls, and my alma mater is Rhodes University,” says Msaki.
A lasting impression from the workshop is the idea that it is never too late to adopt a new attitude, modify your perspective, or simply try a little harder to love. Because what happens to our childlike wonder, and how may we reconnect with this side of the self to develop our inner artists? As this will be Msaki’s last Festival for the foreseeable future, this is an event you’ll want to attend.
