This month sees Nelson Mandela Bay become home to not just one art exhibition but two, celebrating South African artists of the past and present.
While Alliance Francaise celebrates the work of practising artist Richard Barker with the exhibition entitled Sanctuary/Shelter the works of the late George Milwa Mnyaluza, one of the country’s most celebrated artists are on display at the GFI Art Gallery in the exhibition entitled Umbhiyozo.
Umbhiyozo
George Pemba is one of South Africa’s most influential artists. Umbhiyozo celebrates the Gqeberha-born artists’ legacy with 26 original paintings on loan from the Nelson Mandela Art Museum, William Humphreys Art Gallery as well as Private Owners.
George Pemba is said to have been a man of few words who led a humble life driven by his passion and desire to paint the day-to-day lives and reality of his people both in rural and township settings.
He once said, “I do not know if ever I will become a great artist, but an artist of my own nation I surely am to be”.
The exhibition represents a celebration of a man from humble beginnings who was driven by discipline, commitment, passion, and a love of his craft which he pursued daily with utmost dedication from a young age and was able to reach the pinnacle of his career.
Viewing is free at the GFI Art Gallery for more information go to the gallery’s website
Sanctuary Shelter Exhibition
The exhibition presents a collection of visual perceptions that allude to the notions of safety and shelter. They are composed of geometric shapes and elements of Buddhism that strongly inspire the artist, Richard Barker.
The exhibition started on Thursday, May 11, and tomorrow (Saturday, May 13) sees Alliance Francaise hosting a Walkabout with the artist. You can join in to learn more about the artworks in this exciting exhibition and get insights from the artist himself. You can sign up for it using this link:
The exhibition will be run until June 9 2023 at Alliance Francaise 17 Mackay Street, Richmond Hill.
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