Dr Esther Mahlangu’s acclaimed retrospective exhibition, ‘Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective,’ is set to captivate Johannesburg audiences at the Wits Art Museum (WAM). Following its successful run at the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town, this landmark exhibition, supported by BMW Group South Africa, WAM, and the National Arts Council, will open its doors to the public on 20 November 2024.
Curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, the retrospective offers a profound exploration of the life and artistic practice of Dr Mahlangu, a national treasure and global icon. It chronicles her remarkable journey, from her humble beginnings in a small village in Mpumalanga to her international recognition as one of the most influential artists of her time. In a comprehensive collection of archival materials spanning five decades, the exhibition celebrates Dr Mahlangu’s significant contributions to and lasting impact on contemporary art.
“Dr Mahlangu is a living symbol of triumph over adversity. As one of the first South African and female African artists to achieve global recognition, her warm personality and ability to inspire creativity have established her as a matriarch and mentor in contemporary art,” says exhibition curator Nontobeko Ntombela. “Her artistic approach continues to inspire younger generations and emphasises Africa’s rightful place at the centre of the art world.”
Craig Mark, Director of The Melrose Gallery, shared Ntombela’s sentiments, noting, “Few South African artists have had the chance to present a retrospective of this scale. We hope this exhibition can pave the way for a global tour, creating opportunities for other South African artists to access these long-restricted museum spaces.”
Dr Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car, a milestone in the history of both art and automotive design, is a highlight of the retrospective exhibition. Created in 1991, this iconic vehicle marked a historic moment as her work became the first by a woman and an African artist to be included in the prestigious BMW Art Car Collection. Its return to Gauteng after over three decades allows local audiences a unique opportunity to experience this world-renowned masterpiece.
“Dr Mahlangu’s extraordinary legacy is a testament to her pioneering spirit. Our longstanding relationship with her, culminating in the return of the BMW 525i Art Car, is a celebration of her artistic brilliance and our joint effort to push the boundaries of creativity,” says Thilosh Moodally, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at BMW Group South Africa. “I am proud to say that we have a long and rich history of supporting the arts and culture and remain committed to using our platform to promote innovation.”
The WAM retrospective invites audiences from Tshwane, Mpumalanga, and surrounding areas to immerse themselves in the iconic world of Dr Mahlangu. This special regional tribute honours her deep connections to both Gauteng and Mpumalanga. “Wits Art Museum is honoured to host this retrospective, showcasing the remarkable scope and vision in Dr Mahlangu’s work,” says Julia Charlton, WAM Senior Curator.
Bettina Korek, CEO, and Hans Ulrich Obrist, Artistic Director of the Serpentine Galleries hailed Dr Mahlangu as “one of the most important artists of her time” at the unveiling of her large 9m x 5m mural as the opening event for the VIP Programme for Frieze London in October. The artwork is titled ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabuntu’ and translates from isiNdebele to ‘I am because you are’, emphasising human kindness, connection and community. This is her first public mural in the United Kingdom, painted over sixteen wooden panels.
‘Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective’ will be on exhibition at WAM from 20 November 2024 until 17 April 2025. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is free.
If you have any questions, please contact:
The Melrose Gallery (through Alkemi Collective)
Sindi Phenya
Client Service Manager – Alkemi Collective
Phone: +27 83 789 2553
Email: [email protected]
WAM
Angelique Bougaard
Education Curator – WAM
BMW Group South Africa
Angela Konert
Head of Business Communications
Phone: +27 71 666 2472
Email: [email protected]
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