In commemoration of Human Rights Day on 21 March 2025, the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria proudly presents Tour and Taste: The Purple Plate—a unique fusion of art and culinary storytelling. This immersive experience brings powerful works in We, The Purple exhibition into conversation with the talented Chef Gontse Mai's mouth-watering dishes inspired by Mzansi’s rich traditional cuisines- weaving together histories, culture, and lived experiences that have shaped the nation’s past and present.

Set against the backdrop of Javett-UP’s current exhibition We, The Purple, the event combines cultural enrichment, culinary enjoyment, and the visual engagement of art, providing guests with a sensory experience through art, food, and history. On the day, guests will embark on a guided tour of the thought-provoking exhibition, delving into its artistic and historical significance. Following the tour, an exquisite dining experience awaits—where flavours, textures, and aromas echo the themes of resilience, identity, and heritage found in the artworks. Chef Gontse Mai has crafted a menu that pays homage to South Africa’s rich culinary traditions, using locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques to tell stories through food.

Guests will encounter iconic works such as the Union Building by Noria Mabasa, Song of the Pick and Yellow Houses, District Six paintings by Gerard Sekoto, and Helen Sebidi’s Mo Mahaeng Ke Mathata (Home is Difficult) serving as the inspiration for an equally evocative menu. Other artworks include pieces by renowned artist Simon Lekgetho, Walter Battiss, Willie Bester, Gladys Mgudlandlu, and Maggie Laubser which are drawn from prestigious collections such as the Javett Family Collection, the South32 Collection, and the Bongi Dhlomo Collection, all housed at Javett-UP.

The culinary journey will feature South African favourites with a creative twist: from protein-rich Mopane worms and beloved biltong to innovative pairings with thyme, a braai in a bite. Guests can savour a fresh, vibrant South African salad, indulge in the comforting warmth of amagwinya (vetkoek), and round off the experience with sweet traditional treats like syrupy koeksisters and soft sponge cake- a trip down memory lane with nostalgic dishes. 

Reflecting on this exciting collaboration, Chef Gontse Mai shares, “Partnering with Javett-UP is a milestone for Oh Mai Catering... This art centre has been home to many prized collections that hold our heritage, our views expressed in art, and it allows for freedom of expression. As with Oh Mai Catering… it begins with an expression. We like to tell stories with our food and make the food part of the conversation.”

Human Rights Day in South Africa is deeply connected to the events of March 21, 1960, in Sharpeville. On this day, a peaceful protest against the oppressive Pass Laws turned tragic when police opened fire on the crowd, resulting in the deaths of 69 people and injuries to 180 others. This moment became a powerful testament to the resilience of ordinary people who stood together to assert their rights. 

We, The Purple exhibition and Human Rights Day share a profound connection—both reflecting themes of resistance, activism, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. Framed around topical conversations that mark 30 years since the first democratic elections, the exhibition serves as a dynamic platform exploring topics from protest and identity to land rights and spirituality. Each facet of the exhibition promises to spark dialogue and introspection, shedding light on the intersections of art, politics, and collective memory. Having been on view since September last year, the exhibition will close in April.

“The idea of merging art with culinary experiences, especially through a thematic connection between the food and the artwork, is another of innovative approaches to enhance our visitor’s experience and engagement with the art and our spaces. This will not only give guests a deeper connection to both the art and food, but the rich history secreted in these cultural products which define our nation. Join us for an unforgettable Human Rights Day celebration, where art and cuisine unite to honour our shared history, ignite meaningful conversations, and create lasting memories.” added Javett-UP Acting CEO Jackie Rens.

Event details

Date 21 March 2025

Time: 14:30-19:00

Venue: Javett-UP, 23 Lynnwood Road 

Tickets: R450 at Webtickets https://bit.ly/3QWU1Me   TICKETS ARE LIMITED.

This event is presented in collaboration with Oh My Catering and is made possible by the from support Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.