Munich/Cape Town. The Iziko Museums of South Africa and BMW are happy to announce “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective. The exhibition, curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, highlights Esther Mahlangu’s over 50-year lengthy profession and her meteoric rise as a up to date artist, incomes her international acclaim. The retrospective will likely be on view at Iziko Museums of South Africa from February 18 till August 11, 2024. From there it is going to start its international tour, stopping first on the Wits Art Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa, earlier than transferring to the United States in early 2026.
BMW is proud to help this landmark exhibition which honours the expertise of Esther Mahlangu and celebrates a shared historical past of collaboration. Included on this exhibition will likely be Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car, returning to South Africa for the primary time in over 30 years. Mahlangu turned the primary African and girl to color a BMW Art Car in 1991. This collaboration marked a major second within the artwork world, mixing African artwork with up to date automotive design.
“Painting has always been a part of me. I cannot separate it from myself, and neither would I want to. I look forward to sharing my practice and long and colourful story with you on my upcoming Retrospective Exhibition”, says Esther Mahlangu.
Through the language of color and kind, the exhibition charts Mahlangu’s contribution to up to date artwork near seven a long time. More than 100 artworks have been gathered from international collections. They have been positioned alongside historic images and a brief movie. This numerous assortment from Mahlangu’s expansive oeuvre which options in “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective, will supply a complete but intimate perception into her huge and vibrant profession.
“Mahlangu’s journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and resilience”, Curator Nontobeko Ntombela remarks. Continuing, “The retrospective pays homage to Esther Mahlangu’s unique approach to art, which intersects African cultures with modernity and the contemporary. The exhibition celebrates Mahlangu’s voice, agency, and pioneering spirit, symbolizing her self-enunciation, self-determination and creativity”, she says.
The retrospective is a landmark achievement for South African artwork. It acknowledges Mahlangu as one of many few South African artists who’ve had the chance to current a Retrospective Exhibition in world-renowned museums. Of the exhibition, Dr Bongani Ndhlovu, Acting CEO, Iziko Museums of South Africa, says: “Iziko Museums is honored to celebrate the living legend, Dr Esther Mahlangu, and to host this colossal showcase where creativity, culture, and aesthetics are fused.” He continues, “Dr. Mahlangu is a living symbol of triumph against adversity. Her approach to art has inspired generations and is a re-affirmation of calls for Africa-centred innovations.”
“The BMW Group’s commitment to this exhibition is a testament to our respect and admiration for Dr Esther Mahlangu’s pioneering spirit and remarkable contribution to the world of art. This exhibition not only celebrates the incredible journey and legacy of Mam’ Esther but also symbolizes a cherished collaboration that dates back over three decades. We are especially excited about the return of the BMW Art Car to South African soil – a significant symbol of our shared history and appreciation for art that transcends boundaries”, says Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa.
The BMW Group’s Cultural Engagement, with unique updates and deeper insights into its international initiatives might be adopted on Instagram at @BMWGroupCulture.
“Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective
February 18 – August 11, 2024
Iziko South African National Gallery
Government Avenue, Company’s Garden, Cape Town, South Africa