WORDS Michaela Stehr IMAGES Supplied / Clint Strydom
Internationally acclaimed South African artist Dr Esther Mahlangu is celebrating her 85th birthday with one of the largest solo exhibitions of her work to date, entitled Esther Mahlangu 85.
Curated by Ruzy Rusike, the exhibition will showcase works created over the past three years. These pieces include not only her contemporary interpreation of Ndebele designs, but also a series of new sculptures. This monumental exhibition continues to highlight Dr Mahlangu’s passion to “pass on our tradition from generation to generation. So they can see where Ndebele comes from.”
Dr Esther Mahlangu continues to paint with a feather brush as per the Ndebele visual traditions. Image credit: Clint Strydom.
“I love art,” says Dr Mahlangu. “It is part of me and I can’t separate it from who I am. Many people ask me when I am going to retire. But making art is not a job to me, it is a major part of who I am and I will continue to paint as long as I am able.”
An untitled abstract work by Dr Esther Mahlangu produced in 2019.
“Whilst I have worked with many respected museums, curators, art fairs, galleries and global brands I have had very few solo exhibitions in South Africa. It is exciting for me to be launching one of my largest solos ever at the age of 85 in South Africa so that my own people can experience and enjoy these paintings and realise their value,” she adds.
An untitled abstract work by Dr Esther Mahlangu produced in 2020.
The exhibition can be viewed online and at The Melrose Gallery in Joburg until 20 December 2020. For more information, visit themelrosegallery.com.
