The highly anticipated art exhibition, “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective,” will be making its way to the Wits Art Museum (WAM) in Johannesburg from 20 November 2024 to 17 April 2025. Following its successful run at the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town, this retrospective celebrates the incredible life’s work of Dr. Esther Mahlangu, a renowned artist whose impact on the art world is unparalleled.
Featuring over 100 artworks loaned from international collections, including her iconic BMW Art Car, painted mannequins, a TV, and prints created in collaboration with Nelson Mandela, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at Mahlangu’s artistic journey. Spanning fifty decades, the retrospective showcases her rise from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated artist of our time.
Curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, the exhibition delves into Mahlangu’s roots in the Ndebele cultural practice of wall painting and beadwork, which she learned from her grandmother and mother at a young age. These traditional practices laid the foundation for her unique visual language, which blends traditional Ndebele art with contemporary influences. Mahlangu’s work is lauded for its mastery of color and form, as well as its ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary art.
One of Mahlangu’s defining moments came in 1989 when she participated in the “Magiciens de la Terre” exhibition in Paris, painting a replica of her home that garnered international acclaim. In 1991, she made history as the first African and first woman to paint a BMW Art Car, solidifying her place among art legends.
Described as a social justice activist, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador, Mahlangu’s impact extends far beyond the art world. Her ability to inspire creativity and resilience has earned her a reputation as a matriarch and mentor to younger artists.
The exhibition at WAM will not only showcase Mahlangu’s iconic works but also highlight her historic BMW Art Car, which returns to Gauteng after over three decades. The exhibition is made possible through partnerships with the National Arts Council and the BMW Group, underscoring the importance of Mahlangu’s contribution to the art world.
As audiences from Gauteng and beyond flock to the Wits Art Museum to experience this landmark exhibition, they will have the opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Esther Mahlangu, a national treasure and living legend. From her early canvas works to her groundbreaking BMW Art Car, the exhibition offers a glimpse into the extraordinary vision of this iconic artist.
In addition to the exhibition in Johannesburg, Mahlangu will be honored in London with the unveiling of a large mural at the Serpentine Gallery. Titled “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabuntu,” the artwork symbolizes the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, reflecting Mahlangu’s deep-rooted connection to her cultural heritage.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the brilliance of Esther Mahlangu’s work at the Wits Art Museum from November 20, 2024. Admission is free, and the museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm. Join us in celebrating the legacy of this trailblazing artist and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Esther Mahlangu.
