Ousie Annes : memories of my late grandmother. cooking up an anarchive

Abstract

The study explores the Basotho food heritage lost due to migration, oral documentation, and religious beliefs. Through my matrilineal exploration, I hope to create an anarchive of traditional recipes that will encompass the memory of my late maternal grandmother and expand on the knowledge of Basotho culture through its relationship with food.

The practical work for this study showcases a body of artwork that considers the relationship between food practices, memories of my grandmother and my Basotho heritage. The theoretical component follows an a/r/tographical approach and interfaces artmaking and research through living inquiry. The study aims to unpack ideas associated with the archive, with a particular emphasis on Carine Zaayman's concept of anarchive, as a way of making sense of the traces and memories I hold dear of my grandmother and her cooking. Zaayman's argument that art-based research can illuminate untold stories and offer traces of knowledge aligns well with the study's goals. By utilising visual art practices as anarchive, I navigate the "slivers" of knowledge I was left with to bring to light aspects of my Basotho food heritage that have been lost or forgotten over time.

Overall, the study hopes to contribute to society's sustainable development by recognising the value of indigenous knowledge and experience. Through my exploration of Basotho food heritage and my a/r/tographical approach, I hope to shed light on untold stories and offer new insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Basotho people.