The African Art Centre is currently hosting its last exhibition for 2018
and features a presentation of works by selected Durban University of Technology
(DUT) students.
About two months ago, a DUT visual arts student, Rohini Amratlal,
approached the African Art Centre’s director, Magdalene Reddy, requesting for
space to exhibit. She had a group of 1st and 2nd years who wanted to exhibit
their works.
“I welcomed the idea because, as the African Art Centre, our main
objective is to provide a space for both the developing and established to
grow. I found working with the students very refreshing, they were efficient
and met the deadlines,” says Reddy.
The exhibition is titled STRENGTH
and showcases works by Zahraa, Rohini, Bandile, Mzwandile, Londeka, Vukani,
Bhekinkosi, Siphesihle, Mhlengi, Kenneth and Mthokozisi.
“What I found very interesting about the interpretation of the theme by
the artists was that most of the artists depicted images of a woman. “Women” is
the personification of strength. This links perfectly with the 16 days of
activism against Gender-based violence. So many women are abused, their faces,
their smiles hide the pain they experience. But their smiles are true, their
smiles rise above the pain. Their looks
are strong and powerful. This is what Mhlengi was trying to say through his
three works – pride, beauty and strength become the order of their day,” said
Reddy in her speech that launched the exhibition.
“Violence against women is not limited to physical, emotional and sexual
abuse but it is coming through the media and movies. Women have to portray a
certain image in order to be accepted, physical appearances are created by
Hollywood and woman have to comply. Vukani’s unbound tells an interesting story about his sister accepting her
own body. And then Zahraa’s work highlights the culture women are expected to
fit into or live by. This culture in some societies are very oppressive and
have trapped women for years but we find women today are finding the strength
within themselves to rise about societies norms,” she added.
“But this journey is not complete, it is campaigns like violence against
women and artists like these that concertize us, helps us dialogue the
realities and more importantly pushes us to change.”
STRENGTH runs at the African
Art Centre until to January 30, 2019. The African Art Centre is situated at 15A
Station Drive off Umgeni Road in Durban. More information on 031 312 3804/5 or
email africanartcentre@afri-art.co.za or visit www.afriart.co.za
Posts
