Tour Esther Mahlangu's Retrospective
Explore the landmark exhibition 'Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting'
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Honouring Esther Mahlangu's legacy
In February 2024, 'Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective' opened at the Iziko South African National Gallery, honouring Dr Mahlangu's extraordinary eight-decade career.
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A global collection of artwork
Curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, the exhibition brought together more than 100 artworks gathered from international collections, placed alongside historic photographs and a short film.
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Roots of validation
The title draws from Mahlangu's own words: she did not find validation in her work from the public or from art-historical acknowledgement, but through her mother and grandmother, who issued their approval after she painted on the walls of her familial home — only then did she know she was good at painting.
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Travelling exhibition
Following its debut, the retrospective travelled to the Wits Art Museum (WAM) in Johannesburg, where it was on view until 2025. Mahlangu's work stretch far beyond what either gallery are capable of holding and though the timeline nods to these moments, it too cannot hold it all (especially since Mahlangu's narrative is ongoing).
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From homesteads to the world
Through the language of colour and form, the exhibition charts Mahlangu's contribution to contemporary art from her early days painting on traditional Ndebele homes to her global recognition as one of South Africa's most celebrated artists. Included in the exhibition is her BMW 525i Art Car, returning to South Africa for the first time in over 30 years.
"Mahlangu's journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and resilience. 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, symbolising her self-enunciation, self-determination and creativity."
— Curator Nontobeko Ntombela
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