Lweendo Hamukoma
Pretoria
Summary
Dynamic curator with extensive experience at the Javett Art Centre, specialising in curatorial design and public engagement. Successfully facilitated over 20 transformative projects annually, emphasising equity-centred principles and amplifying underrepresented voices. Expertise in fostering meaningful collaborations has resulted in impactful experiences that resonate with diverse audiences, enhancing community engagement through innovative practices.
Equally passionate about the interplay of art and wine, brings a unique perspective to curating engaging environments that spark curiosity and connection. Proven expertise in leading community-focused initiatives that celebrate cultural discovery and sensory exploration. Dedicated to blending the timeless allure of wine culture with vibrant artistic expressions, creating immersive interactions that leave lasting impressions.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Curator of Public Engagement
Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria
Pretoria
01.2022 - Current
- Curated over 20 innovative exhibitions annually, enhancing visibility and engagement for diverse art forms.
- Led cultural projects, including workshops and panel discussions, amplifying South African and African art narratives.
- Collaborated with local and international artists, and stakeholders, to expand cultural networks and foster cross-cultural partnerships.
- Maintained positive working relationship with fellow staff and management.
- Planned events such as lectures, workshops, symposia, and gallery talks related to exhibitions or specific works of art.
Freelance Cultural Curator and Consultant
LH Consulting
Johannesburg
02.2018 - Current
- Managed program logistics, from artist coordination to installation, ensuring a seamless visitor experience
- Secured funding for independent cultural initiatives, enhancing the sustainability of the South African art sector.
- Applied equity-centered design in all engagements, ensuring accessible and inclusive programming for diverse audiences
- Supported the development of Sophiatown Arts Akademy.
- The development of Critical Friends as an outcome of a curatorial residency from Nirox Sculpture Park.
Critical Friend, Facilitator, and Host
Sophiatown Arts Akademy
Johannesburg
08.2024 - 11.2024
- Supported participatory workshops and art-builds that engaged climate justice activists, artists, and community members in developing creative strategies and tools for environmental advocacy
- Facilitated interdisciplinary collaborations, connecting intersectional struggles of climate justice with actionable artistic outputs, including print-making, memes, and performance-based interventions
- Hosted dynamic public engagement sessions, fostering inclusive spaces for dialogue and collective action on climate and social justice issues
- Contributed to the creation of a comprehensive toolkit for community mobilisation, integrating art as a medium for impactful communication and activism
- Strengthened networks between artists and campaigners, promoting sustained cultural engagement and advocacy within diverse communities
Founding Partner and Cultural Strategist
A Call for Equity
Johannesburg
04.2020 - 07.2022
- Facilitated equity-centered workshops and discussions, incorporating DEI principles in curatorial practices
- Spearheaded initiatives that elevated underrepresented voices, expanding reach within the arts community
- Developed and managed strategic partnerships with cultural organisations, increasing opportunities for marginalised artists
Wine Experience
Publik Johannesburg
Johannesburg
05.2019 - 08.2019
- Worked with boutique wines, introducing patrons to unique selections and fostering an appreciation for artisanal wine
- Leveraged knowledge of food and wine pairing to enhance visitor experiences, bridging wine culture with art engagement
Wine Experience
Open Wine
Cape Town
11.2016 - 03.2017
- Worked as a waitress, gaining hands-on experience with boutique wine selections and customer service
- Acquired foundational skills in food and wine pairing, later applied to curating innovative art and wine pairings in cultural projects
Education
No Degree - Arts And Curatorial Practice
New Centre
Online12-2025
BPhil - Sustainable Development
Stellenbosch University
South Africa12.2011
BSocSci (Hons) - Development Studies
Rhodes University
South Africa03.2010
BSocSci - Politics and Industrial Sociology
Rhodes University
South Africa03.2008
Skills
- Curatorial and Exhibition Design
- Event Curation and Management
- Stakeholder and Artist Collaboration
- Visitor Engagement and Experience Enhancement
- Food and Wine Pairing for Art Events
- Budget Management and Fundraising
References
- Dr. Katharina Fink, Iwalewabooks Johannesburg & Sophiatown Arts Akademy, frl@himmelgruen.net
- Lakin Morgan Baatjies, Senior Marketing Manager, University of Johannesburg & CCI Consultant, lakinmorganbaatjies@gmail.com
Residencies
- Cross Currents Curatorial Residency NIROX / Villa-Legodi Centre for Sculpture
- 27 February – 2 March 2024
Timeline
Critical Friend, Facilitator, and Host
Sophiatown Arts Akademy
08.2024 - 11.2024
Curator of Public Engagement
Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria
01.2022 - Current
Founding Partner and Cultural Strategist
A Call for Equity
04.2020 - 07.2022
Wine Experience
Publik Johannesburg
05.2019 - 08.2019
Freelance Cultural Curator and Consultant
LH Consulting
02.2018 - Current
Wine Experience
Open Wine
11.2016 - 03.2017
No Degree - Arts And Curatorial Practice
New Centre
BPhil - Sustainable Development
Stellenbosch University
BSocSci (Hons) - Development Studies
Rhodes University
BSocSci - Politics and Industrial Sociology
Rhodes University
Similar Profiles
Lweendo HamukomaLweendo Hamukoma
Curator Public Engagement at Javett Art Centre at the University of PretoriaCurator Public Engagement at Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria
Hope DlaminiHope Dlamini
Operations & Administration Front of House Intern at Javett-UP Art CentreOperations & Administration Front of House Intern at Javett-UP Art Centre
Tamika HibbardTamika Hibbard
Admin Clerk at Pathways Pretoria CentreAdmin Clerk at Pathways Pretoria Centre