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Presently
Presently the Bushmen are
in a desperate struggle to change from their existing
way of life into a more westernised lifestyle. Some
of them have stock (cattle and goats) and have started
farming their lands rather than hunting and gathering.
Schools have been set up where the children are taught
in their own languages as well as in local languages.
There is however a huge number who have little hope
or opportunities.
As they attempt to move into the twenty first century,
efforts are being made to re-establish their cultural
heritage.
Art centres have been established where their traditional
arts are being produced. These works (paintings, linocuts,
ceramics, textiles, jewellery) are increasing in value
daily due to their international acclaim. Their art
is a key to our understanding of the complex symbolic
rituals and ceremonies and although at first glance
many paintings may be seen simply as records of everyday
occurrences, further study will reveal deeper meanings.
Organisations have been
founded to help them with the problems they are facing.
This has to do with claiming their land rights, language
preservation, job creation and education.
School for the !Xun and Khwe community in Northern Cape.
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