By Bouwe Groeneveld (MSc Biological Sciences, track Ecology & Evolution, University of Amsterdam)
From 2 to 6 March, I joined the Mapping Ancient Africa Research and Writing Workshop at Fountainhill Estate near Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The week brought together focused writing, interdisciplinary exchange, and time in the landscape.
We began with a speed dating session that set an open and collaborative tone. Participants introduced their research backgrounds, ranging from botany and ecology to geography. The group was highly international, with participants from Ghana, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and the Netherlands. This diversity quickly proved valuable, as different perspectives naturally complemented one another throughout discussions.
The second day centred on the challenges of academic writing and publishing. Through group conversations and smaller sessions, we reflected on common difficulties such as structuring arguments and navigating the publication process. Later that afternoon, we walked across the estate to the Holley Shelter archaeological site. During the walk, I noticed how the surrounding landscape offered a sense of calm that contrasted with the intensity of writing. Along the way, we encountered a giraffe standing only a few metres from us, quietly feeding on acacia leaves.
The shelter itself was striking. A clear waterfall flowed down the rock face, catching the sunlight as it filtered into the green valley below. The interplay of water, rock, and light created a remarkably beautiful and tranquil setting, making the site feel both impressive and deeply serene.
On Wednesday, we shifted our attention fully to the field during a visit to Game Pass Shelter in the Kamberg. After a steady climb, we reached the site and observed San rock art that conveyed movement and emotion in a striking way. The eland antelope appeared repeatedly and seemed to play a central role in the imagery, with some human figures even reflecting its features. The experience felt immersive and offered a vivid sense of past lifeways.
That evening, the day was concluded with a South African wine tasting led by Professor Trevor Hill, a two-time national wine tasting champion. It provided a relaxed moment to reflect on the field experience and continue conversations in a more informal setting.
The remainder of the week returned to writing, feedback, and reflection. Thursday concluded with a traditional South African braai, and on Friday we shared our experiences before saying goodbye. The workshop highlighted how writing, collaboration, and time in the landscape can meaningfully inform one another.
I am grateful to the organisers and facilitators who made this workshop possible, in particular Jemma Finch and Trevor Hill at the University of KwaZulu Natal, as well as Rahab Kinyanjui, Stefanie Kaboth-Bahr, and William Gosling for their guidance and contributions throughout the week.
To find out more about the Mapping Ancient Africa network click here.
Ecology of the past 