SAM NHLENGETHWA

Throughout his career, Nhlengethwa has developed a distinctive collage and painting practice that explores everyday life in South Africa, from city life to domestic spaces to the influence of mining. His oeuvre, approach toartmaking and involvement in institutions such as Bag Factory Artist Studios has contributed greatly to the South African arts landscape, making him one of the country’s seminal artists.

Central to his practice and his life is a fascination with the sartorial; how people dress themselves to represent who they are and how they view the world. For the artist, clothing and art have always fed each other. This circular feedback loop is what he highlights through runway scenes and portraits of vibrant colour. Taking this further, Nhlengethwa is collaborating with iconic South African designer Sonwabile Ndamase - the creator of the iconic ‘Madiba shirt’ worn by former President Nelson Mandela. Under his label Vukani Fashions, Ndamase will produce a new collection inspired by the paintings.

“The theme, ‘Art meets Fashion’, is born out of the golden thread of art that permeates the fashion world. I believe that clothing designs and other fashion accessories are inspired by art - whether in colour or style. My interest in this dates back to my teens. I have always been fascinated by people looking trendy. I love shopping around for exclusive pieces of clothing for myself and my family. In this series, I reflect on models in dressing rooms and on the ramp, as well as everyday people looking stylish.”

– Nhlengethwa

As with previous exhibitions, Nhlengethwa is using his practice to platform those in society who are often overlooked. For this show the artist includes people with albinism as the central figures in his works and is collaborating with model, motivational speaker and inclusion activist, Palesa Mosiea to sensitively unpack their challenges and highlight their radiance.

“People often assume that having a specific condition limits you. I am excited to collaborate on this project given its aims to raise awareness about the challenges we face as people with albinism but also to positively demonstrate what we can do. As a project based on including people who are perceived as different, it speaks to the importance of diversity and creating a tolerant society, which is what I emphasise in my work as a motivational speaker and inclusion activist.” – Mosiea