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2 THE ARCHITECTURAL BRIEF

2.1 INTRODUCTION

THE SARAH BARTMANN CENTRE OF REMEMBRANCE – A Place of Memory, Healing, Hope and Celebration

MEMORY:

The primary purpose of the Sarah Bartmann Centre of Remembrance will be to commemorate the life of Sarah Bartmann, whose life story represents the marginalised and abused in our society. It will form a strong physical and emotional link with her grave site on top of the koppie and, in doing so will add to the sacredness of the place.

In addition to this the Centre will form an archive of all knowledge, practices and artifacts pertaining to and relevant to the KhoiSan peoples.

HEALING:

The Centre will symbolise the reaffirmation of a culture of human rights, the dignity of women, and the dignity of the marginalised KhoiSan peoples. It will be a place of compassion, contemplation, forgiveness and restoration through relationship with nature and spirit.

HOPE:

The Centre will provide the KhoiSan peoples with a place to call their own, at which they may come together in great numbers to celebrate their rich heritage. Spaces will be created which will provide every opportunity for the passing on of traditional skills, traditions and cultural practices.

It will be a place open to anyone who wishes to learn more about the KhoiSan peoples and their culture. It is envisaged that through education and understanding, bridges between the different cultures of our country may be made stronger.

The building will be created in the spirit of the KhoiSan, that is, with a respect for the earth and all that lives on her. It will be ecologically ethical, utilising sustainable technology wherever possible.

It will be a place which fosters economic sustainability; in this Centre a heritage will be preserved, skills will be learnt and incomes generated. It will therefore contribute positively to the economic and social structure of the entire Hankey area.

CELEBRATION:

In light of the above, the Sarah Bartmann Centre of Remembrance will become a place for all the people of South Africa. By promoting cultural understanding and respect, it will promote social cohesion and the further development of a shared national identity.