Prof. Kate Wells

In 2011, the Siyazama Project, a HIV/Aids and Rural Craft intervention in KZN, which I lead, has clearly achieved worldwide recognition for its unique approach when working in issues of design, health and community. The DUT has proudly supported this initiative, since 1995, when it started to emerge. The project is working with international designers such as FRONT, Editions in Craft and BCXSY and targeting high-end design platforms such as in Italy and Japan. I head up the Master’s programme in Graphic Design at the DUT and have developed a programme for deeper understanding of appropriate research methodologies in the visual arts studies domain. I am leading the new plan to introduce a Doctorate in Art and Design in 2013 at the DUT. This new Doctorate is expected to have a practice-based component that contributes meaningfully to new research domains in South Africa. I have travelled extensively. Countries visited include South Korea, India, South America, Thailand, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Sweden, Europe, United Kingdom, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Reunion Island and all over South Africa. For the past five years I have visited the USA annually. I continue to engage in collaborative relationships with colleagues at Michigan State University Museum, Konstfact Art School, Sweden, University of Newcastle/Northumbria, U.K, and Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. I have published several chapters in books, as well as writing and editing, with co-editors, a new book on the Siyazama Project, due for publication 2011. I have presented numerous papers both nationally, and internationally. I have also been the recipient of several important awards for my work in design, health and community. I love all forms of new technology, FaceBook, Twitter, my iPhone, my Mac's, my cats and dogs, my growing and wonderful family, all kinds of music, fashion and design!