In the dynamic neighborhood of Braamfontein in Johannesburg, a vividly designed BMW catches the eye at the entrance of the Wits Arts Museum.
The car, showcasing bright geometric patterns, is representative of the distinct artistic style of 89-year-old South African artist Esther Mahlangu.
This striking vehicle serves as the focal point of an exhibition dedicated to celebrating Mahalngu’s significant contributions to the art world.
Originally commissioned by the German automobile manufacturer in 1991, the BMW is one of Mahlangu’s most celebrated artworks and has returned to South Africa after being displayed internationally for over three decades.
The car, showcasing bright geometric patterns, is representative of the distinct artistic style of 89-year-old South African artist Esther Mahlangu.
This striking vehicle serves as the focal point of an exhibition dedicated to celebrating Mahalngu’s significant contributions to the art world.
Originally commissioned by the German automobile manufacturer in 1991, the BMW is one of Mahlangu’s most celebrated artworks and has returned to South Africa after being displayed internationally for over three decades.
Curator Nontobeko Ntombela has also included important pieces that reflect the historical struggles faced by Nelson Mandela, who was imprisoned for nearly 30 years before becoming South Africa’s first Black president following the nation’s shift to democracy from apartheid in 1994.
Among these items is a heartfelt letter Mahlangu penned to Mandela, expressing her gratitude for his sacrifices for the nation.
Mahlangu is acknowledged for her resilience in pursuing art during a period when Black artists, particularly women, received minimal recognition.
“Mahlangu boldly navigated an uncharted path at a time when Black women artists were often overlooked. I hope this exhibition reveals the depth and significance of her contributions to the arts,” Ntombela stated.
Among these items is a heartfelt letter Mahlangu penned to Mandela, expressing her gratitude for his sacrifices for the nation.
Mahlangu is acknowledged for her resilience in pursuing art during a period when Black artists, particularly women, received minimal recognition.
“Mahlangu boldly navigated an uncharted path at a time when Black women artists were often overlooked. I hope this exhibition reveals the depth and significance of her contributions to the arts,” Ntombela stated.
The retrospective also features a documentary that highlights Mahlangu’s journey, showcasing her rural upbringing and rich Ndebele heritage.
For years, she has utilized her artistry to advocate for her culture, becoming one of the most recognized figures representing the southern African ethnic group.
Ntombela noted that much of what is publicly known about Mahlangu often recycles familiar narratives, including her notable first international exhibition in Paris in 1989.
“Many narratives tend to overemphasize her cultural significance without adequately exploring her work as an art form. This exhibition aims to delve into this complexity and demonstrate how her art transcends various disciplines,” the curator explained.
For years, she has utilized her artistry to advocate for her culture, becoming one of the most recognized figures representing the southern African ethnic group.
Ntombela noted that much of what is publicly known about Mahlangu often recycles familiar narratives, including her notable first international exhibition in Paris in 1989.
“Many narratives tend to overemphasize her cultural significance without adequately exploring her work as an art form. This exhibition aims to delve into this complexity and demonstrate how her art transcends various disciplines,” the curator explained.
Several of the artworks on display, which illustrate umgwalo or traditional Ndebele painting, have been sourced from both local and international collections.
Ntombela mentioned that it took approximately two years to secure these pieces, emphasizing that many are held by global collectors, requiring significant funding to facilitate their return to South Africa.
Mahlangu has been honored with one of the nation’s most prestigious awards, the Order of Ikhamanga in silver, presented by the head of state.
Although she made a brief appearance at the exhibition’s launch last month, she currently resides quietly in Mpumalanga province, where her vibrantly decorated home has become a draw for both local and international visitors.
Ntombela mentioned that it took approximately two years to secure these pieces, emphasizing that many are held by global collectors, requiring significant funding to facilitate their return to South Africa.
Mahlangu has been honored with one of the nation’s most prestigious awards, the Order of Ikhamanga in silver, presented by the head of state.
Although she made a brief appearance at the exhibition’s launch last month, she currently resides quietly in Mpumalanga province, where her vibrantly decorated home has become a draw for both local and international visitors.
The exhibition is set to be available until April 17, after which it will embark on an international journey, starting in the United States in early 2026.
