Pfunzo Sidogi has chaired the Sasol New Signatures Visual Art Competition since 2020 – a platform that’s helped launch many a South African artist’s career. He’s also the assistant dean for postgraduate studies, research and innovation in the faculty of arts and design at Tshwane University of Technology, and the award-winning author of Mihloti Ya Ntsako: Journeys with the Bongi Dhlomo Collection.
We asked him our favourite eight questions – and got some real R&B nostalgia, and reflections on heritage, running and rhythm in return.
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year, and why?
Lucas Mangope: A Life by Oupa Segalwe (Tafelberg, 2024). It is a fascinating and beautifully written biographical narrative of a leader whose life mirrors the complex and contradictory histories of our country. It was amazing to learn about the passion he had for the arts through the establishment of the Mmabana Arts Centre, which had several campuses across the former Bophuthatswana homeland, and whose “success” has not been replicated since.
How do you keep fit?
By preparing for the Comrades Marathon. This year was my 13th finish, and I completed the 90km distance in just under nine hours (humble brag).
Weeknight, lowkey restaurant go-to?
This is another humble brag, but my wife is a brilliant chef, which means I am privileged to have restaurant-grade meals on a random Tuesday or Thursday. So, I rarely go to restaurants during the week. I live in one.
What is the one artwork you’ll always love, and why?
The Esther Mahlangu BMW Art Car (1991) is beyond iconic. First, it is a Beemer, and second, it is a phenomenal painting (on wheels). I was overwhelmed by awe and deep emotions when I saw it in person for the first time at her retrospective exhibition put together by the brilliant Dokotela Nontobeko Ntombela at the Iziko South African National Gallery in 2024.
Do you have a hobby? What is it?
Running.
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
A pen.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
The American R&B singer Monica. I should note, a third and final humble brag, my wife legit looks like her.
Three songs you’d take to a desert island?
Yoh. This is a toughie! Improvise by 101, Angel of Mine by Monica, and 66 by Felo Le Tee and Myztro. I enjoy Felo Le Tee and Myztro’s song because it has amazing beats, and it is easy to dance to.
The 2024 Sasol New Signatures Visual Art Competition winners will be revealed in September at the Pretoria Art Museum. The competition, now in its 35th year, is a vital platform for emerging South African artists.
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