Newsletter was issued in 1980 during the first quarter in March. Poetry section of this issue includes Tribute to Martyrs by James Matthews, Alex death blues by Dumisani Dhlamini, untitled poetry by Chippa wa Moagi. A short story by Mongane Serote titled the mosquito. An interview of Thamsanqa Mnyele interviewed by Tim Williams. Thami talks about his journey as a South African painter and designer. Thami Mnyele was a member of Medu. Lastly, the cover design of this newsletter was designed by F. Mbali and illustration by Thami Mnyele.
Cultural Bodies are a means for artists to learn from and communicate with their communities. How is it done? This edition of Medu opens discussion on the inter-communication between artists and communities. To this end, a "Graffiti Page" has been added to allow for public comments on Thami Mnyele's exhibition, which was held at the Gaborone Museum. Critical artistic reflection is included in this issue through reviews of the art of Thami Mnyele, Maselwa Malatji, Bachana Mokwena and Dennis Brutus. Like all Medu Newsletters, this includes exciting poetry by Mongane Serote and Keorapetse Kgositsile. Front page graphic by Heinz Klug on lithograph.
Medu newsletters were published by Publication and Research Unit within Medu Art Ensemble. Newsletters have illustrations by Medu members, other artists and Medu posters. There are various sections such poetry, art review, from the hotpot, short story and featured articles.
In this newsletter, there are five poetry sections, namely Dead roots, Apology from London by Arthur Nortje, Miles of many fears by Bachana wa Mokwena, A prayer for Africa from the mouths of babies by Mandlenkosi Langa and I surrender by Thele Moema. Other section is the art review of the film by Mongane Serote called 'The wild Geese'. Medu's views on burning current issues in South Africa are included, interview by Bachan wa Mokwena interviewing Teresa Devant de Gonzalez regarding the theatre and the role of an artist in an oppressive system. Lastly, there are featured articles by Molefe Pheto, Phetu Serote and Timothy Williams.
Newsletter has interview section of Mosa Jonas Gwangwa who is a composer, musician and member of Medu Art Ensemble. He is interviewed by Medu project co-ordinator Mongane Serote. Jonas Gwangwa shares his background from his early childhood when his parents arrived at Orlando in 1931. Furthermore, he talks about his musical background that is influenced by his musical family.
