Maipelo Gabang

Choreography

Stockholm University of the Arts

Maipelo Gabang, is a PhD Candidate at Stockholm University of the Arts. She is an artistic researcher, performer and facilitator from Botswana whose educational background includes a B.A in Drama and Organisational Psychology and an MA in Choreography and Movement Research from Rhodes University in South Africa. Her Ph.D project, called “Finding Upright”, is an on-going conversation seeking to investigate Black Womanhood within the African diaspora situated in the Swedish context. An earlier version of this research was initiated during her postgraduate years at Rhodes University in South Africa. That period in South Africa was characterised by significant political, social and cultural shifts spearheaded by student led activism calling for transformation. Maipelo Gabang explores questions like how to not reproduce racialised and culture specific stereotypes and not reiterate current hierarchies of position, knowledge and art. How to expand on the often restricted avenues of self- definition and expression of the Black women within the African diaspora. She also questions identity and belonging (read as alignment & orientation) in relation to people’s positions within the given context (environment).

Gabang has worked and collaborated with institutions and organisations such as the Swiss Arts Council, The South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance (AFDA), Mophato Dance Theatre and the South African State Theatre. As well as performed and showcased work at various international festivals and platforms.