UMEMULO KA NDLOVUKAZI FOR TATHAM

The Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg is hosting the exhibition Umemulo ka Ndlovukazi: Coming of Age.

Umemulo ka Ndlovukazi: Coming of Age is a collaborative exhibition between the Tatham Art Gallery, French Cultural partners in the Pietermaritzburg local, and emerging UKZN-trained artist Ndlovukazi Ngilande born in 1999 at Port Shepstone.

Positioned as an experimental conversation across space, history, and identity, the exhibition brings 27-year old Ngilande's contemporary ceramic and sculptural works into dialogue with narratives of the French presence in KwaZulu-Natal.

This is done through a juxtaposition of her work alongside some pieces from the Gallery's Permanent French Collection and some craft collected by the French Cultural partners in other projects.

Whilst this exhibition is a component of the much-anticipated French Week Tours facilitated by local Francophile, Glenn Flanagan, the exhibition also celebrates Ngilande's independent achievement in securing an artist residency at the Cite de Arts in Paris through her own successful competition entry in the ABA l'atelier art competition. As she has already departed, the work she leaves behind continue this conversation in her absence, inhabiting the gallery as reflections on memories of her own umemulo, womanhood, heritage, and transition.

Through this unique exchange between Pietermaritzburg and Paris, this exhibition explores what it means for a young artist to metaphorically 'come of age' within both local and global cultural landscapes, simultaneously casting a spotlight on French culture in the context of the city. This exhibition will be up until she returns to South Africa at the end of her residency.

The exhibition will close on August 30, 2026, at 16h00. The Gallery is located opposite the Pietermaritzburg City Hall..

 

N.B. Safe Parking space is available and join the Tatham for a Sunday morning of thoughtful engagement and investment in local emerging voices in art.

For information concerning the exhibition contact Pinky Madlabane-Nkabinde at Pinky.Nkabinde@msunduzi.gov.za or Naledi Maboee at Naledi.Maboee@msunduzi.gov.za

 

SPIRITS AND SPACES

 

(Poster: Experimental Short Film by Gabriella Blumberg inspired by Roger Ballen Book)

 

An experimental short film Spirits and Spaces, inspired by the book of the same name by world-renowned photographer and artist Roger Ballen - his first publication in colour - enters the strange psychological terrain that defines the Ballenesque: a world that is chaotic, absurd, and deeply subconscious.

Now available to view on YouTube, the film was created as a companion artwork to the book, and directed by Gabriella Blumberg, with director of photography Gavin Pincus and creative director Marguerite Rossouw. Spirts and Spaces unfolds as a journey through a transitional interior world of rooms and spaces.

In it, a lone spirit awakens in a coffin and wanders through a sequence of 6 rooms inspired by chapters from Ballen’s book, each embodying a distinct state, as the walls breathe, shadows detach, and the world erupts into chaos around him - transforming the photographic themes into living spaces.

Blumberg comments: “Creating Spirits and Spaces felt more like making a documentary than a work of fiction - as though placing a camera within the mind of Roger Ballen, The film invites viewers to step beyond the surface of each photograph and inhabit its liminal space.”

Ballen adds: “This is the first photographic book and film in my long career of nearly six decades that I have expressed my world in colour. This place should be viewed not as a location that is real versus unreal, but as an uncanny spot that exists somewhere in each of our minds. Upon viewing the film and images you will be unclear as to if whether and when you have ever been to this Ballenesque universe.”

Blumberg says: “We are thrilled to launch the film on YouTube alongside the release of the book, allowing audiences immediate access to experience both works in dialogue with one another. Presented simultaneously, the film and book encourage us to engage with the project as a unified and immersive experience,”.

The film is available to watch on Youtube here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2GSaneIPu8

Spirits and Spaces is published by Thames & Hudson and is available on Amazon worldwide and Takealot in SA on https://www.takealot.com/roger-ballen-spirits-and-spaces/PLID97154473

 

SING ALLELULIA!

 

(Above: The Durban Chamber Choir)

The Durban Chamber Choir invites audiences to celebrate the joy of choral singing in two vibrant autumn concerts—one in Pietermaritzburg and one in Durban. The second concert brings the music home to Durban on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 15h00 at St Thomas Anglican Church, Musgrave, Durban.

The Choir presents an uplifting carefully-chosen, eclectic programme of music which includes: the elegant Messe Brève by Charles Gounod; Baba Yetu (Swahili: "Our Father") by celebrated Xhosa hymn writers, John Knox Bokwe; and the iconic Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen.

The Durban Chamber Choir has been in existence for over 20 years. The choir’s conductor is Margrit Deppe. Come and enjoy an afternoon of beautiful music.

Tickets are available through Quicket or at the door for R120, concessions R80. Please join the choir after the performances for tea, cake, and conversation.

SONGBOOK SESSIONS – MONDAY NIGHT WITH MASUDA

 

 

The UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music proudly presents another exciting edition of The Songbook Sessions, featuring acclaimed Johannesburg-born DJ, producer, and pianist Obakeng Thamage, better known as Masuda, on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 18h00.

Masuda is rapidly redefining the Afrohouse landscape with a distinctive sound that blends cinematic depth, electronic dance music energy, and rich live instrumentation. A graduate of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, he has collaborated with some of South Africa’s biggest music names, including Prince Kaybee, Distruction Boyz, Zakes Bantwini, Kabza De Small, and Dlala Thukzin. Most recently, he co-produced the hit track Muthi alongside Kabza De Small and Dlala Thukzin.

Known for his immersive live performances, Masuda seamlessly fuses live synths, expressive piano riffs, and his signature productions, all enhanced by striking visuals and a bold, fashion-forward aesthetic.

For this special performance, he will be joined by an exceptional ensemble featuring Daniel Sheldon on trumpet, Mandla Matsha on percussion, and Nick Pitman on guitar.

 

Event Details

The Songbook Sessions – Monday Jam Session led by Masuda

Date: Monday, June 1, 2026

Time: 18h00

Venue: UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

 

Tickets: R130 (R100 pensioners & R70 students)

Tickets are available at the door or via Webtickets.

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Performance.aspx?itemid=1595344554

2026 WORLD SYMPHONY SERIES SECOND LEG

Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra announces: “As the air turns crisp and our beloved city of Durban settles into the quiet magic of winter, I am thrilled to welcome you to the second leg of our 2026 World Symphony Series!

“We have handpicked two unforgettable programmes designed to inspire, elevate, and deeply connect with you. Concerts take place on June 11 and 18, at 19h00.

“We urge you to secure your Season Ticket savings of up to 20% by contacting our offices on 031 369 9438 or info@kznphil.org.za

“There is something truly special about gathering in the warmth of the iconic Playhouse Opera to experience the transformative power of live music together.”

 

Programme:

 

CONCERT 1: June 11 at 19h00 – Playhouse Opera

Conductor: Daniel Boico

Soloist: Elvin Ganiyev, violin

Beethoven: Egmont Overture

Dvořák: Violin Concerto, Op. 53 in a minor

Brahms: Symphony No. 3, Op. 90 in F Major

 

 

CONCERT 2: June 18 at 19h00 – Playhouse Opera

Conductor: Alexandra Arrieche

Soloist: Federico Colli, piano

 

Curtain Raiser performed by the KZN Youth Orchestra

Schumann: Piano Concerto, Op. 54

Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3, “Scottish”

 

NB: To link to the KZNPO website, click on the advert at the top right hand of this page.

ISICATHAMIYA CONCERT

 

The Playhouse Company proudly presents its 2nd Isicathamiya Concert, featuring outstanding groups from Gauteng Province, eThekwini District and uThukela District. This vibrant and celebratory event brings together diverse voices and communities in a powerful showcase of harmony, tradition and cultural expression.

Rooted in rich South African heritage, Isicathamiya is renowned for its intricate vocal arrangements, disciplined choreography and deeply resonant storytelling. This special concert offers audiences an authentic and uplifting musical experience, celebrating the enduring legacy and unifying spirit of one of South Africa’s most treasured musical traditions.

Featuring incredible performances by:

Pomeroy Golden Stars | Zulu Messengers | Royal Messengers | Inkululeko |

Khalabhayi Boys | Umlazi Tremendous Boys | Abafana Benkokhelo | O-Ben 10

 

This will be an unforgettable afternoon of rhythm, heritage and soul-stirring harmony as the beauty of Isicathamiya music takes centre stage.

The concert takes place on May 30 at 14h00 in the Playhouse Drama Theatre.

Tickets: Standard – R100 booked through Webtickets.

 

A vibrant celebration of heritage, harmony and cultural pride, the Isicathamiya Concert brings together powerful voices and timeless traditions in an unforgettable live experience.

35 YEARS OF ARTIST PROOF STUDIO

 

(Photo Credit: Provided by Artist Proof Studio)

The KZNSA will host 35 Years of Artist Proof Studio: A Legacy in Printmaking on May 28, 2026.

This is a landmark exhibition that celebrates one of South Africa’s most influential centres of printmaking, honouring three and a half decades of artistic excellence, collaboration, and community impact.

Artist Proof Studio (APS) was founded in 1991 and has become a leading force in fine art printmaking, recognised for its commitment to training, mentorship, and creative exchange. Over the years, APS has supported generations of artists whose work has been exhibited at major art fairs, represented in prominent galleries, and developed in collaboration with some of the country’s most celebrated practitioners.

 

35 Years of Artist Proof Studio

Programme Highlights

Walkabout with APS Kim Berman and Nathi Simalane –on May 29 May, at 09h30 for 10h00 to 11h00

This guided tour will offer a rare opportunity to hear directly from the visionaries from APS, as they reflect on the studio’s history, its impact on South African printmaking, and the stories embedded within the works on display as an attendee you will gain a deeper understanding of the artistic processes, collaborations, and community‑centred ethos that have shaped APS over the past three decades. Kim and Nathi will also be available after the walkabout for any questions relating to the exhibition and APS’s ongoing work.

 

Printmaking demonstrations by Nkosana Nhlapho and Tshogofatso Nkhumeleng - First Thursday, 4 June 14h30 for 15h00 to 17h00.

 

APS 35‑Year Walkabout - Saturday, June 6, 10h30 for 11h00 to 13h00.

 

The KZNSA looks forward to welcoming art lovers as they celebrate 35 years of artistry, resilience, and the shared humanity at the heart of printmaking.

The KZNSA Gallery is located at 166 Bulwer Road, Bulwer, Durban. For more information visit https://kznsagallery.co.za/

BANK OF AMERICA ART CONSERVATION PROJECT

Bank of America's Art Conservation Project (ACP) is a global initiative dedicated to preserving culturally and historically significant artworks and artefacts for future generations. Since its launch in 2010, the programme has supported the conservation of more than 15,000 artworks and cultural objects across 40 countries through partnerships with museums, galleries and cultural institutions.

At a time when many cultural organisations face increasing financial and resource pressures, the ACP helps safeguard works at risk of deterioration while ensuring they remain accessible to the public. The initiative forms part of Bank of America's broader commitment to arts and culture, recognising the important role that cultural heritage plays in education, community development and fostering greater understanding across generations.

As Brian Siegel, Global Arts, Culture & Heritage Executive at Bank of America, explains: “Conservation is the quiet work that brings those stories forward today and for future generations… the goal is simple: to ensure these works remain visible, accessible and enjoyed by visitors for years to come.”

The latest round of ACP recipients highlights the growing importance of conservation and preservation efforts worldwide, as institutions work to protect cultural heritage and expand access to art and history for wider audiences.

For more information, contact email: Samantha.robinson@omc.com

UKZN FESTIVALS PREVIEW CONCERT

 

(Pop Voice Ensemble. Pic by Sethu Dlamini)

 

UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music presents Festivals Preview Concert UKZN Jazz Ensemble and UKZN Pop Voice Ensemble.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal Centre for Jazz and Popular Music will host a special preview concert on Wednesday, May 27 2026 at 17h30, showcasing the outstanding student ensembles preparing to represent the university at two major jazz festivals later this month.

Audiences will experience an exciting evening of contemporary jazz, Afrocentric rhythms, vocal excellence, and the jazz band energy as the students present the repertoire they will perform at the prestigious Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival in the Eastern Cape and the highly anticipated Jam in Mzansi: Africa Day Jazz Celebration in Durban.

The concert will feature performances by the UKZN Jazz Ensemble and the UKZN Pop Voice Ensemble, highlighting the depth of musical talent emerging from the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Arts.

The UKZN Jazz Ensemble is set to perform on May 29, 2026 ,at the Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival’s University Jazz Schools Concert, alongside the NMU Jazz Ensemble and Wits University Jazz Ensemble — a platform celebrating jazz heritage, collaboration, and musical excellence among South Africa’s leading tertiary institutions. https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1593323450 (Gqeberha).

The UKZN Pop Voice Ensemble will then take to the stage at Jam in Mzansi: Africa Day Jazz Celebration on May 31, 2026, at the Durban Botanic Gardens. Presented by Sompisi Events in partnership with Durban Tourism, the event will bring together celebrated jazz artists and emerging performers in a vibrant celebration of African music and culture. https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1590970200 (Durban).

This preview concert offers Durban audiences a unique opportunity to support the students before they embark on these important festival appearances and to experience the creativity, artistry, and energy that continue to define UKZN’s contribution to South Africa’s jazz scene.

 

Event Details

Event: UKZN Festival Preview Concert

Date: Wednesday, May 27 2026

Venue: Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

Concert Time: 17h30

Ticket R130 (R100 pensioners - R70 students)

 

Tickets will be available at the door. An inspiring evening celebrating the next generation of jazz excellence.

EAST COAST RADIO HOUSE + GARDEN SHOW 2026

 

(Right: The Gin Garden)

 

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2026 promises a whole lot more fun and fascination than you can handle! Get your family to the Durban Exhibition Centre June 27 to July 5 … and prepare to be entertained!

There’s a load of colourful and intriguing entertainment and activities lined up for visitors young and not so young, at this year’s East Coast Radio House + Garden Show at Durban’s Exhibition Centre. The motto? The more the merrier!

From June 27 to July 5, the Show will pop the lid off a new brand of entertainment, so expect the unexpected. It’s carnival time. There are oodles of mega surprises, the likes of which you haven’t seen before. No matter whether you’re junior, senior, or somewhere in between, come empty-handed, and we’ll keep your hands full with multiple Show attractions, interactions and activations.

For the children, it begins at the gate. Wind through the indoor and outdoor Show stands and halls, keeping an eye out for the juggling stilt walkers and talented duo of hip-hop dancers, eye-catching characters like the floral Blooming Beauties and the bright Living Lamps. Hunt down the extraordinarily mobile Dolly with her Trolley. She’s the Show’s half-human, half-AI waitress. Real Magic Productions has waved its flamboyant wand, and pulled so many funtastic things out of the bag!

 

(Left: Lamp Lady)

Whimsical fairies, pirates, elves and mythical creatures will welcome little ones to the Neverland-inspired themed Kids’ Zone. There’ll be face painting, temporary airbrush body art, Melissa & Doug interactive play spaces, meet and greet photo opportunities, and craft stations. This is the Show’s imagination station, keeping the youngsters busy for hours.

This year’s Show will blow young minds. The entire South Plaza is a colourful and crazy play zone, edge-to-edge with Nick’s inflatable everything … picture gigantic blow-up slides and cubes, soft and bouncy activities for safe landings, every young kid’s dream.

Hirsch will be showcasing the most advanced appliances and tech globally, but this year, they have much more: a Nintendo Activation Area where youngsters can meet characters Mario and Luigi. For the adult in you, come and view the latest Porsche x SMEG appliance range … you won’t want to miss the real live iconic Porsche 911 parked in the hall.

From eateries to action, there’s plenty to keep adults engaged. Choose your favourite chef demonstrating something delectable at Hirsch’s Demo Kitchen, or head for Edgars House of Red master classes to learn the perfect way to get your beauty routine down pat.

Not to be missed is the Mobiclaw Rescue Experience, bringing a dynamic, interactive rescue and emergency response experience to the Show for visitors of all ages. Be first in line for the thrilling Jaws of Life Challenge … lift an egg without cracking it … using the Jaws of Life. Guaranteed to push your boundaries!

What’s to eat? Plenty. For evening and weekend visitors, the Show puts the ooh into food with a wide array of gourmet street food. Drink, eat and be merry at all the foodie stalls. The Gin Garden is a delightful barstool away, with colours and flavours of a host of gins, and live music from your favourite musicians. For Burger fans, Filthy Moustache is your vibe; for Mexican, go Lawmans, and Korean, go Krazy Korean. Ole Smoki has a glorious range of smokehouse goodies, and on the pretty side, go pink with Sophie’s Café and its sweet and savoury treats. There’s something lip-smacking for everyone.

Interactivity is the name of the game this year, and you’ll be able to get the right answers from Builders’ DIY experts. Don’t miss out on the spectacle of Khakibush’s BraaiBoss Challenge – the preliminaries – every Saturday at the Show, where hot-shot braaiers fight it out for the title of Braai Boss 2026.

Entertainment is always an integral part of the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show. Only this year, it’s bigger, better and bolder! Plenty to do, see, and marvel over. It’s a day or night out, and we’ve got you entertained.

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show takes place from June 27 to July 5 at the Durban Exhibition Centre. 

Tickets are available online via quicket.co.za or housegardenshow.co.za or at the entrance on the day.

 

THE BARBECUE AT NO. 9: REVIEW

 

The characters were thin and rather stereotypical and the changes that some of them underwent in a relatively short time seemed improbable. (Review by Fiona de Goede)

 

When I read the blurb describing this novel by Jennie Godfrey, it seemed to tick many of the boxes that I look out for in a good read:  the era, diverse characters and a gripping plot. Tick. Tick. Tick.  And, my other favourite thing:  a map, detailing the area in which the story is set.

The premise is quite simple:  the Live Aid concert is the big event of the summer of 1985.  And what better opportunity for house-proud, snobbish Lydia Gordon than to invite the neighbourhood around for a barbecue so she can show off their new state-of-the-art TV whilst watching the concert?  So, the invitations are sent out to everyone living in the Close and this is when the reader is introduced to the various role players.

Steve, a young soldier back from the Falklands, lives with his mother. He is battling his own demons and cannot come to grips with adjusting to civilian life.  Rita, from Australia, a new resident in the Close, with a past that she is trying to hide.  Hanna, Lydia’s 16-year-old daughter with a secret so huge she is contemplating running away from home.  The other characters all contribute in one way or the other to the unfolding of the drama at the barbecue.

The novel is split into hourly time slots and the bands performing in each segment is mentioned at the beginning of every chapter.  This adds a huge dose of nostalgia and manages to move the pace along to the finale which takes place between 9 and 10p.m. 

Some of the boxes that I felt were ticked prior to me reading this book, are also, unfortunately, the very things that, in my opinion, failed.  The characters were thin and rather stereotypical and the changes that some of them underwent in a relatively short time seemed improbable.  Especially Lydia, the snobbish mother.  The plot unfolds in a single day with the result that it often became rather slow and mundane.  I did not experience one single moment of suspense.  Even when the big secret is revealed, it felt a bit flat.

I felt the references to the era were authentic and well-handled.  Walkmans, Dynasty, recording the top 40 music charts on cassette, Princess Diana and Delia Smith all set the tone for the 1980’s.

This is the second novel by the author – the first being The List of Suspicious Things, a Sunday Times bestselling novel. - Fiona de Goede

The Barbecue At No. 9  -   ISBN 978-1-529-15502-0

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ARTSMART!

 

 

 Happy Birthday, artSMart!

Today, artSMart celebrates its 27^th birthday!

It has gone through some difficult patches but always pulls back into survivor mode.

I want to thank every single person and organisation who assists in keeping artSMart alive and available – administrators, financial advisors, reviewers – as well as all the people who look to the site for information. Your input is invaluable.

Here’s to the next 27 years!!

Caroline Smart

artSMart Editor/Owner