Thokozani’s works on show

EXHIBITION: SELF-LOVE THROUGH ART Artist says he uses warm colours in this body of work to evoke a sense of comfort.

Mural artist, painter and printmaker, Thokozani Madonsela opened a heartfelt solo print exhibition on 15 November 2020. Broadcaster and activist Bridget Masinga opened the show and moderated the panel discussion during the opening, with comedian, Bexta, keeping us in stitches.

A young black local artist, Madonsela’s art exhibition showcases African stories of self-love through art.

In addition to being a mural artist, painter and a printmaker, Madonsela also specialises in different mediums such as charcoal drawings and mosaic art.

Over the years, his work has been most recognizable for its iconic nude, faceless, often laughing figures.

This has been a bold statement he’s used to depict neutrality in human identity.

Not only that but he has participated in a number of group exhibitions across Africa such as the SA Taxi Foundation, Art Awards and Absa L’Atelier to name a few.

He has also been involved in other special projects and commissions.

The figures in Madonsela’s collection maintain the same faceless feature that has over the years, allowed anyone to relate and own the experience the figure presents.

This time around, the figures maintain neutrality with a bucket hat, commonly known in Mzansi as iSpotty.

The figures spread a common thread message of peace, humanity and friendship. A much needed sermon as we mend ourselves and restore each other from the threads and hinges on which we hung for what felt like eternity.

“In this body of work, I have used warm colours to evoke a sense of comfort and reassurance, a silver lining of sorts, light at the end of this tunnel,” says Madonsela.

“This collection is also adorned with a variety of African prints on the clothes the figures have on. A sense of identity reaffirmed at a time we needed to be reminded of it the most.”

The exhibition will be open for a week at Benrose Studio; 120 Main Reef Road, Benrose, for any walk-ins and potential buyers.

A sense of identity reaffirmed at time we need it