Noria Mabasa (b. 1938) is a South African artist known for her clay and wood sculptures that celebrate Venda traditions and daily life. Her art reflects her cultural heritage and personal journey, earning her recognition as one of South Africa’s most important artists.
Noria was born on May 10, 1938, in Xigalo village, Limpopo Province. She attended school for only a year because of the long distance she had to travel. In the early 1970s, she began creating clay sculptures inspired by vivid dreams. Her early works often depicted Domba figures, used in Venda initiation ceremonies. In 1983, she expanded to woodcarving, becoming the first Venda woman to gain prominence in this medium.
Her sculptures depict traditional ceremonies, women, children, and everyday life in her community. Using natural materials like clay and wood, her work blends spiritual and cultural themes with artistic expression. Noria’s pieces are both vibrant and meaningful, highlighting the beauty of Venda culture.
During her career, Noria’s work has been exhibited locally and internationally. She has received numerous accolades, including the Order of the Baobab in Silver in 2002 for her contribution to South African art. Her dedication to preserving her culture through art has made her a vital figure in contemporary South African art.
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