Unpacking coloniality in Zulu Cultural collections at the Wits Art Museum (WAM)

Abstract

This research looks into the state of museums episteme in South Africa through an analysis of Zulu collections at the Wits Art Museum. It compares the museum's interpretation of these collections to the ones of Zulu informants who reside at the Kwa-Mazibuko hostel in Katlehong. In this research report I make use of people experiences to interpret my findings/data. Using Archival research and interviews, the researcher finds that there is a significant difference in the difference and naming of some of the objects under analysis. The data included electronic data collected from the WAM electronic database as well as written records that show the different interpretations subscribed to the collections by the museum. This research is aimed at understanding the nature of colonial interpretations of collections housed at the WAM museum. This was done by way of a comparative analysis of WAM's interpretation of the collections vis-à-vis interpretations submitted by the contemporary Zulu society residing at Kwa- Mazibuko Hostel in Katlehong, Gauteng. The research concludes with a call to decolonize the museum space in South Africa. This research presents an argument that the collections presented and interpreted at WAM reproduce colonial-era narratives and depictions of Zulu people. Furthermore, the results of the study indicate the need for an appropriate and effective system of interpretation for the specific community context which encourages people— both local and foreign — to be aware of the community's importance. As a result of their awareness, the museum would increasingly cherish their community and work for the sustainable development of the community in collaboration with the local peoples. The discussions focused primarily on personal interpretation