10 expressions of wisdom from the San people
A curated collection of learnings from the San Community of Xai Xai village in Botswana.
The Expressions (2021) by Daniel MyburgProject FUEL
When the termites begin to strengthen the points of the termite mounts, it means that the rains will come early, and it will rain hard. Soon after, the flying termites will appear, and it is time to feast. (“flying ants” / termites are a once-a-year delicacy to the San).
Thinking it Through (2021) by Tessa BarlinProject FUEL
Seeing a meteorite in the night sky means that the Mother Moon is shedding a tear, for a hard day will come soon for one of the San.
Tjivita with the Tusk (2021) by Daniel MyburgProject FUEL
Always leave some honeycomb for the young bee, otherwise, it will not show you the way again.
The cradled one (2021) by Tessa BarlinProject FUEL
Placing a mantis on a boy’s forehead at birth is believed to bring him luck in hunting.
The Wandering Woman (2021) by Tessa BarlinProject FUEL
Killing a mantis brings bad luck.
Fostering Generations (2021) by Tessa BarlinProject FUEL
Hitting a child or anyone else doesn’t teach anything. It only causes pain for both of you.
The Bonfire (2021) by Daniel MyburgProject FUEL
Never make a campfire near a rhino. It might charge through it at night, searching for its stolen fire.
Awaiting Bait (2021) by Daniel MyburgProject FUEL
A hunter with a loud voice will sleep hungry at night.
Ember and dust (2021) by Tessa BarlinProject FUEL
Long ago, our elders had a form of governance, symbolized by an ember from the fire of our last home. This ember was used to light the fire at the new place we settled.
Well equipped (2021) by Daniel MyburgProject FUEL
I am like the lighting bird
Who just flies on,
Doesn't know where he is going,
Even goes to strangers' homes
And is not afraid.
Project FUEL would like to thank the San community of Xai Xai village, Botswana for opening their hearts and home for this research.
Project FUEL documents, designs and passes on human wisdom and strengthens the wisdom of indigenous communities using art, digital media, and community outreach programmes. The arts lead the way to raise support for the challenges these communities face today, like migration, quality education and access to basic amenities like water and roads.
Cultural consultant: Bojosi Joster
Image Credit: Tessa Barlin and Daniel Myburg.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.