Poet Mmakgari defies creative boundaries
She said her poetry is not limited to a certain genre.
Poet Mmakgari Dambutha’s love for writing and performing poetry can be traced back to her days as a young child.
She was always scribbling her thoughts on paper.
The poet recently visited the EXPRESS’ office and shared her thoughts on the state of poetry and the arts in the country.
Mmakgari has been part of the Proud Community Youth Development project started by Mrs Faradiba Morton, where she has shared her knowledge with the children at the Rhodes Park Library.
She said her poetry is not limited to a certain genre.
“I do not conform to any boxes, I have no boundaries regarding what I write,” said Mmakgari.
She said she tries to stay away from writing about anything negative. She lamented the lack of support for local artists from the Department of Arts and Culture and the business community.
“It is not easy being an artist in our country. We need to take good care of our own,” said Mmakgari.
She is of the view that international artists receive better treatment than the local artists when they visit our shores.
“Our legends are treated like gold when they perform overseas. A group such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo sells out shows all over Europe and America, yet here we fail to acknowledge them,” said Mmakgari.
She said poets must try to move away from writing to please the audience.
“Move away from what the audience will think and you will have an element of truth in your poetry,” said Mmakgari.
She said one of her favourite poets is Lesego Rampolokeng.
“He shakes people out of their comfort zones,” said Mmakgari.
Mmakgari performs at monthly shows held at Constitution Hill, alongside other poets such as Flo, Siza, Prophet JD and Sabelo Soko. @JoburgJourno
