Beer is Art: A Cultural Connection to Brewing Heritage
In 2022, Obakeng Malope embarked on an inspiring journey to celebrate and educate the youth about the vibrant world of brewing through her project, Beer is Art. Her mission was not only to offer career prospects in the South African craft beer market but also to highlight the historical significance of traditional brews like sorghum-based Bojalwa jwa Setswana, or Umqombothi. Drawing from her rich heritage, Malope champions the artistry of brewing, a craft often passed down through generations of women, including her grandmother.
Describing the profound roots of African brewing, Malope emphasizes the art’s deeply woven ties to cultural identity. As illustrated in her new documentary, she returns to her village of Jericho to explore how her heritage has nurtured her love for beer and how folklore and brewing traditions have long been entrusted to women. This film serves as both a celebration of her roots and a clarion call to the younger generation to stay anchored in their cultural identity.
Brewers as Storytellers
Malope asserts, “In my village, women are both brewers and storytellers,” as she introduces viewers to the brewing process of Setswana through her grandmother’s kitchen. This personal narrative offers a heartfelt glimpse into the cherished craft, where brewing transcends beyond mere creation, weaving folklore and craftsmanship into a single tapestry. Interviews with women from the Tswana and Tsonga tribes further enrich the story, revealing diverse yet interconnected practices of this traditional brew.
The film delves into the intimate tales of brewing that link past to present, capturing the voices and wisdom of tribal women who have nurtured and transformed this craft. As Malope follows her grandmother through each stage of brewing, it becomes evident how narrative and process are intimately connected, creating a living history that speaks to the heart of African folk traditions.
Shared Techniques, Unique Steps
For those familiar with the brewing process, Setswana may seem novel and yet comfortably familiar. Despite different grains and methods, the detailed examination by Malope resonates deeply with beer enthusiasts, highlighting universal brewing principles. The film captures this essence beautifully by juxtaposing traditional practices against a backdrop of South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes.
The storytelling aspect is central, with myth and reality intertwining as viewers learn about folk legends like Mamogaswa, the water spirit. Through these narratives, Malope paints a vivid picture of how generations of women have kept these legacies alive while brewing together. The film is an ode to the oral traditions that continue to shape and influence the crafting of beer.
Brewing Knowledge: Tradition Meets Modernity
Back in Johannesburg, Malope draws a parallel between her village’s practices and the modern craft brewery setup, expressing a poignant reflection on cultural heritage. The film’s conclusion artfully blends scenes from her grandmother’s methods with those from contemporary brewing to underscore the expertise and innovation inherent in age-old African techniques, such as malting and krausening, often overlooked in conventional brewing education.
Malope elegantly balances her identity as a guardian of Setswana heritage and as an advocate in the craft beer community. Her narrative advocates for an unbroken bridge between past and present, ensuring that modern innovation honors its roots. This journey captures the essential values of the craft beer scene, where storytelling, tradition, and modernity intersect.
Honoring Indigenous Brewing Legacy
Malope passionately declares, “The main thing I want people to know is that we in Africa have always been brewing beer. Our knowledge has existed long before it was scientifically validated by outsiders.” She stresses the importance of recognizing and preserving indigenous brewing techniques and narratives, warning of the risk of losing them if not actively claimed and celebrated by future generations.
The message here is clear: African brewing traditions are not only foundational but also deserving of recognition in the wider craft beer narrative. Participants can engage with this narrative directly, as Beer is Art can be viewed on YouTube and will feature special screenings at Montclair Brewing in New Jersey and Yards Brewing in Philadelphia. Support for this initiative exemplifies our shared goal within the craft beer community, reminding us all of the vital link between culture and brewing.
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