("Ezinyathelweni zikamkhulu" by Lalelani Mbhele)Recently mounted at the African Art Centre is a new exhibition titled Abantu Bakithi / Our People highlighting a selection of Durban’s rich and diverse community of artists and their works. Artists represented are Welcome Danca; Sibusiso Duma; Bheki Khambule, Xolile Mazibuko; Lalelani Mbhele and Mbhekeni Mbili.
The African Art Centre prides itself in nurturing young talent and encouraging the production of works of creativity and innovation. It provides an outlet and public exposure for more than 1,000 artists and crafters and in so doing enable them to generate a sustainable income for themselves.
On view until March 13, 2011, these eclectic works of art on Abantu Bakithi / Our People reflect and celebrate life. The selection of artists - some known to the Centre and three newcomers - have used social commentary as their major theme and reflect on issues including traditional Zulu culture and religion, township life and the communities in which they live.
Lalelani Mbhele’s paintings in bright, vibrant colour are unique and carefully executed. Prominent in his artworks is an added element of humour and wit. He says that his paintings are a vehicle through which he communicates his passion for the people who surround him and are part of his everyday existence.
Xolile Mazibuko, one of KwaZulu-Natal’s young up and coming artists, successfully uses the medium of painting to convey and express her views on her culture and how she experiences life as a young black woman from a traditional Zulu background. She refers to herself as a profoundly spiritual person and a follower of the Shembe faith. She attests to being deeply aggrieved for her community and for the disadvantaged and often makes reference to the neglect of basic human rights in her paintings. In 2009 Xolile was selected as one of the top 100 artists for the Spier Contemporary Exhibition.
Sibusiso Duma, recently selected as one of ten finalists of the ABSA Atelier 2010, brings to the exhibition a unique painting delicately executed in vibrant colour and in his traditional style of pointillism.
Mbhekeni Mbili, one of KZN’s distinctive voices in the visual arts, has produced two paintings which illustrate the modernist language of “township art” to explore contemporary issues. His humorous, narrative paintings are a vehicle through which he communicates his personal interpretation of the world in which he lives. Mbhekeni’s work is sought after in both local and international markets.
Welcome Danca, well-known for social commentary and interpretations of the traditional Zulu way of life and daily observations of the city environment has in his new paintings directed his focus on the life of hostel dwellers living in KZN. Poignantly executed, Danca effectively depicts the mysterious, gloomy environment and austerity of hostel life.
Bheki Khambule‘s paintings depict his daily observations of the city environment, the space, the people and the culture. Bheki Khambule was the winner of the 2008 Nivea Art Start Award, an award aimed at emerging artists in KZN.
Abantu Bakithi / Our People runs until March 13 at the African Art Centre at 94 Florida Road, Morningside. More information from the Director, Sharon Crampton, on 031 312 3805 or email africanartcentre@afri-art.co.za or visit www.afriart.co.za
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