25 young visual artists of KZN interpret Somnyama Ngonyama for Ikhono laseNatali Exhibition

Image by Wendy Khumalo

Inkanyiso Media and Muholi Productions, in collaboration with 25 young visual artists of KwaZulu-Natal, present Ikhono Lasenatali in The KZNSA Gallery’s Main, Mezzanine, Park and Media Galleries in Durban. 

Ikhono Lasenatali is a collection of commissions by the acclaimed South African visual activist, Prof Sir Zanele Muholi, to 25 young KwaZulu-Natal visual artists to re-interpret Muholi’s self-portraits from the Somnyama Ngonyama project in each young artist’s medium and technique.

The exhibition at KZNSA, curated by Dr Bajabulile Dhlamini and Thobeka Bhengu, celebrates KwaZulu-Natal's talent and provides an exciting platform for the young artists to showcase their skills and craft.

Ikhono Lasenatali also forms part of a 25 Years of Democracy commemoration, with the interpretations of Somnyama Ngonyama by mostly ‘born free’ artists speaking to social ills and touching on Muholi’s themes of gender, race, politics, sexuality, collaboration, and collectivism.

Participating artists include Mpilo Makhanya , Bongani Luthuli , Lindokuhle Khumalo , Mlamuli Mkhwanazi , Mthobisi Maphumulo, Mduduzi Dzanibe , Londiwe Mtshali , Andile Maphumulo, Sthenjwa Luthuli, Lungisani Ndlovu, Nomusa Mtshali , Morgan Mohape , Sphephelo Mnguni, Ncumisa Mcitwa , Major Ndlovu, Mondli Mbhele, Zwelinjani Radebe, Shabo Bhengu, Mhlonishwa Chiliza, Khulekani Mkhize, Lindani Nyandeni, Nhlakanipho Gcwabe, Thembi Mtshali, Thalente Khomo, Wonder Mbambo and Nkosikhona Majola.

There are numerous educational activities planned throughout the exhibition including public and schools walkabouts. These will facilitate in-depth discussions on national, continental and international issues relevant to the artworks selected. Discussions will also provide a vibrant overview of South African contemporary art and art history, encouraging participants to engage in critical thinking and analysis through visual interactions and experience.

The exhibition runs from May 8 to June 2, 2019. The official opening, with Muholi and participating artists in attendance, is on May 17, 2019, at 17h30 for 18h00. All are welcome. Free entry, Arts Cafe and bar will be open.

The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban.