Fantastic artworks coming to Joburg
JOBURG – There are four upcoming artists from KwaZulu-Natal whose fantastic artworks are feeding a hungry new gallery in Joburg, and you can check them out in the months of May and June.
Mlamuli Mkhwanazi, Stenjwa Luthuli, Buhle ‘Wonder’ Mbambo and Mthobisi Mapumulo all come from the BAT centre, an arts, culture and community centre in KwaZulu-Natal. They are all currently producing incredible pieces for the Henry George Gallery in Parkhurst.
Darryl Gray, curator of the gallery stumbled across these talented artists while at Durban’s Harbour edge. “I see each of these artists as a barometer of this interesting time in South African history, as revealed in the authenticity of the art they make, and also as individuals, living what they depict,” he said.
“So it’s no wonder that their work’s getting attention from tourists and local art aficionados, alike.”
He added that there was a ‘mushrooming of smaller galleries in Joburg – each nurturing an interest in local art at a perspicacious time’.
The Henry George Gallery is a cosy gallery that often holds exceptional exhibitions that feature a number of works from local artists only. The space is intimate and easy to navigate, making it the perfect spot for exhibitions in the bustling neighbourhood of Parkhurst.
A trend is starting where tourists who visit South Africa are looking for handmade items that specifically look like they come from the country. This is the perfect opportunity for artists to cash in on the tourist business, as art is a high commodity in a world rife with technology.
Co-curator Mandy Walker said, “This is just the start of the era of the handmade, bespoke, artisanal item becoming more desirable, alongside the technology trend. It just makes sense right now to choose a once-off bespoke handmade item – like a work of art, to hand down to generations to come. The ultra-rich overseas buyers are also diversifying their asset portfolio by including art.”
Details: henrygeorgegallery.co.za
