By Khanyisa Khenese
Renowned South African artist Michael Barry who made his mark with his artistry when he spearheaded projects such as the Route 67 Public Art Project and the Sunday Times 100-year heritage project, was among the graduates who graced the academic stage to receive their qualifications at the recent spring graduation hosted by Rhodes University.
The decorated academic ceremony was part of the institutions 120th anniversary celebration in 2024. The university capped Masters and PhD candidates and awarded honorary doctorates at the 1820 Settlers National Monument.
Gqeberha art activist and educator, Michael Barry was awarded with an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) (honours causa) by the reputable institution for his contribution to society.
Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sizwe Mabizela praised Barry’s unwavering dedication to the arts, stating: “Social justice, equality, and access to the arts have been the mainstay of his lifelong journey as an artist, arts activist, and arts educator. He has inspired a generation of vulnerable youth to take up the arts as a viable career option, and to use the medium to express their lived realities,” said Mabizela.
Barry received this doctorate for his exceptional contribution to making a difference through his impactful work in communities that were affected by poverty, violence, and inequality during the apartheid era.
Before working as a fine artist, he worked at the Ford Motor Company as a Computer Operator. He drew inspiration and motivation for art from the works of artist, Vincent Van Gogh during a visit to New York’s Guggenheim Museum and his mentor, Catholic Priest Fr. Geoff Goodwin.
Barry studied Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art with honours at the University of Cape Town. He also holds a Higher Diploma in Education and a master’s in art education which he obtained at Nelson Mandela University.
He spearheaded projects such as the Route 67 Public Art Project and the Sunday Times 100-year heritage project.
In his reply speech, Barry thanked the university for celebrating him and recognizing his work.
“This award is special to me, for an institution like Rhodes to honour me, it’s a big thing not for my career but just to honour what I have been doing. It makes me really special so it means a lot to me, and my family, my mother would have been proud of me. Moreover, it means a lot that Rhodes recognizes the artists and people who played an active role in developing the art”, he said.
