New home for Esther Mahlangu's car-based art at Wits Art Museum

New home for Esther Mahlangu's car-based art at Wits Art Museum

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‍Esther Mahlangu, who is best known for her vibrant and striking abstract paintings that draw inspiration from traditional Ndebele designs, became the first woman and African artist to receive a commission from BMW to paint an art car, a BMW 525i, with traditional Ndebele motifs.

Aged 89, Mahlangu’s works are displayed in museums and galleries across the globe, the latest being ‘A Celebration of Dr. Esther Mahlangu’s Life’s Work’ at the Wits Art Museum.

Set to run from November, the exhibition will highlight her journey from a young artist to an internationally recognised figure, celebrating her contributions to art and culture. The exhibition will feature over 100 artworks loaned from international collections, including her BMW 525i Art Car, painted mannequins, a TV, and a series of prints created by her in collaboration with Nelson Mandela. 

“This retrospective offers a remarkable opportunity to experience Esther Mahlangu's artistic journey. Her work has had a profound impact on South African modern and contemporary art, and this exhibition is a testament to her incredible contribution,” says curator Nontobeko Ntombela. 

Mahlangu’s artistic journey began under the guidance of her grandmother and mother, who introduced her to the traditional Ndebele art of wall painting and beadwork when she was just ten years old. She embraced the communal cultural practices of the Southern Ndebele community, particularly in home decoration, during a period of land disputes. These vibrant murals not only served as a form of artistic expression but also as a means of cultural identity and resistance.

In preparation for the upcoming exhibition in Johannesburg, Esther Mahlangu will be honoured in London by the Serpentine Gallery. They will unveil a large mural, measuring 9mx5m, as the opening event for Frieze London.

The artwork, titled “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabuntu,” translates from Ndebele to “I am because you are.” This piece emphasises the interconnectedness between humans, communities, and other living beings. It will be displayed in the garden at Serpentine North and will be on view starting October 4, 2024.

For those interested in viewing the iconic artworks, the Wits Art Museum will be open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free of charge.

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