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News - Date: 12 November 2004
MAKHADO (LOUIS TRICHARDT) - Where is the sculpture of Louis Trichardt? This question has plagued many a resident of this town.
For the first time since the disturbing disappearance of the sculpture of this historic leader, the Makhado Municipality has openly admitted that the bust of Louis Trichardt is locked away in Fort Hendrina.
Art heritage pieces, like the statue of Louis Trichardt and artwork by Mr de Wet van Wyk on the theme of the Voortrekker history, which were on display in the public areas of the civic centre, were removed over the years. There were also a tapestry and historic photographs.
Ms Inga Gilfillan, who is involved in tourism in the Soutpansberg area, realized that “we hide our best assets in this case, as this is history and art combined which tourists travel many a mile to come and experience.” Ms Gilfillan offered to display the very valuable art work of Mr de Wet van Wyk and the sculpture of Louis Trichardt in a museum at the Lalapanzi Hotel.
“These works belong to the public and must be displayed publicly where access is free and open,” reads her letter to the municipality, dated July 30 this year.
The letter also mentions that a permanent arts and craft exhibition from the Elim artists will be on display in the foyer. She said that the museum will be established with the specific goal of drawing tourists to the area.
Ms Gilfillan said this week that her letters have to date not been answered. She is still waiting for the municipality to come back to her with an answer to her offer.
Mr Peter Magwala, Director of Corporate Services of the Makhado Municipality, said on Tuesday that he had investigated and seen for himself that the bust of Louis Trichardt was locked in Fort Hendrina. He said that the other art works were in a safe in the municipality building.
“We have a plan with these art works, which we regard as part of the heritage of the town. When we have finished the renovation of the guest house at Ottoshoogte, there will be a museum where these historic art works will be displayed,” Mr Magwala said. An expected completion date could not be given.
Regarding Ms Gilfillan’s offer to display these art heritage pieces, Mr Magwala said, “I cannot say yes or no. These art works remain the assets of the municipality and cannot be loaned to individuals.”
In the meantime, residents are concerned about the condition of the sculpture of the well-respected leader, Louis Trichardt, regarded by many as a model leader who promoted reconciliation long before it became the buzz word, as it is now locked away with Council’s lawn-mowers.
Linda van der Westhuizen has been with Zoutnet since 2001. She has a heart for God, people and their stories. Linda believes that every person is unique and has a special story to tell. It follows logically that human interest stories is her speciality. Linda finds working with people and their leaders in the economic, educational, spiritual and political arena very rewarding. “I have a special interest in what God is doing in our town, province and nation and what He wants us to become,” says Linda.
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