Draw and Capture
Explore the Bushbuckridge area through the eyes of local artists!
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About the Research
A brief summary
The Bushbuckridge area is experiencing a disconnection between one side of the fence with the Kruger National Park, and the other side of the fence with surrounding communities. By exploring the definition of nature of local community members, and by reflecting on connections and disconnections to nature, this research strives to promote traditional knowledge as the tool to safeguard inclusive conservation.
- Leon, Grace, Sam, Nina
Participatory Rural Appraisal
The chosen methodologies fall under Participatory Rural Appraisal, an overarching method that centers local participants in order to encourage the use of local traditional knowledge in management, and in this case, conservation endeavours.
An overview of the methodologies:
Community Mapping
A methodology in which community members collaboratively create visual representations of their local resources, challenges, and assets to identify needs, priorities, and opportunities for action.
PhotoVoice
A methodology where participants use photography to document and reflect on their lived experiences, fostering dialogue and social change through visual storytelling.
Transect Walks
A methodology in which researchers and community members walk through an area together to observe, discuss, and analyse local conditions, resources, and challenges across different environments.
PhotoVoice
Youth Participatory Methodology
In our PhotoVoice Mission, 15 young adults ages 14-25, explored their communities through photography, taking photos of places that highlighted their connections and disconnections to nature. Prompted by what was discovered during mapping, the photo researchers uncovered spaces and objects that they hope to share with others, ultimately sparking change and reflection within their communities!
Connection
to nature
Key Findings
The river and the dam in Sigagule has appeared to be the places where youth seeks connection to nature. Additionally livestock and pets are expressed as things that the artists feel tied to, same as different trees, such as mango, marula and papaya.
Disconnection
to nature
Key Findings
A prevalent disconnection to nature has been places where alcohol is served, causing the artists nuisance of alcohol bottles, intoxicated people, and processed food packaging. The same accounts for dump sites and littering, showcasing disharmony with nature.
Gallery
Hereby a selection of the artworks from the Photovoice mission. Simply click on the photo to see whether it is the photographer's connection or disconnection to nature.
Enjoy!
