Mbali Tshabalala's artistic odyssey at RMB Latitudes 2023, presented by David Krut
By Lindelwa Masuku
RMB Latitudes 2023, where art from Africa takes center stage in the magnificent setting of Shepstone Gardens, Johannesburg. Within this curated art experience, the remarkable artist Mbali Tshabalala unveils her transformative journey of identity and empowerment through her exceptional artworks.
Presented in collaboration with David Krut, this exhibition offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the power of artistic expression
Attending RMB Latitudes 2023 at Shepstone Gardens in Johannesburg was truly an experience of a lifetime. The event brought together artists and exhibitors from across the continent, creating a curated celebration of art from Africa.
The combination of contemporary art, the stunning garden setting, engaging art talks, and the presence of vignerons from Franschhoek Wine Valley made this event truly unique and memorable.
RMB Latitudes itself is a remarkable platform that provides innovative models for cultural and artistic engagement. As Azu Nwagbogu, the Founder and Director of African Artists' Foundation, stated, it offers new ways of experiencing and interacting with art that have evolved from our previous ways of living. It's refreshing to see such a forward-thinking approach to showcasing art from Africa.
The previous year's exhibitions at RMB Latitudes must have been outstanding, considering the exceptional quality of artists and galleries participating in this year's event.
Everard Read, Africa's oldest commercial art gallery, presented modern and contemporary art from South Africa, showcasing the country's top artists. Lady Skollie, the winner of the 2022 Standard Bank Young Award for Visual Arts, was among the featured artists, which undoubtedly added excitement and anticipation for the 2023 edition.
Shepstone Gardens proved to be the perfect location for this art fair. Its three-acre property, filled with marble halls, secret gardens, and rooftop pavilions, created a captivating atmosphere for the event.
The combination of art and nature was truly enchanting, as visitors had the opportunity to explore the stunning gardens while immersing themselves in the curated art experience. Shepstone Gardens offered a unique backdrop for the exhibitions, enhancing the overall ambiance and providing a seamless blend of art and natural beauty.
One of the highlights of RMB Latitudes 2023 was the presence of David Krut Projects. This renowned gallery brought three solo exhibitions by Heidi Fourie, Mbali Tshabalala, and Anna van der Ploeg.
Focusing on the voices of young South African women, each artist offered a unique perspective on social identities and their interaction with the world.
Mbali Tshabalala, a multidisciplinary artist, delved into themes of identity and societal expectations through her artwork. Her exploration of mental wellness in black societies, particularly for black women, was thought-provoking and powerful.
The incorporation of different mediums in her printed works, such as paper lithography transfers and hand-carved linocut, added depth and complexity to her narratives.
Beyond the artworks themselves, RMB Latitudes 2023 provided a vibrant and engaging environment. Art talks and walkabouts allowed visitors to connect with the artists, gaining deeper insights into their creative processes and inspirations.
The partnership with Franschhoek Wine Valley brought an additional layer of enjoyment, as vignerons shared their top wines and bubblies with attendees, adding a touch of indulgence to the art experience.
And let's not forget the seasonal, fresh food offerings by sustainable chef James Diack, which surely satisfied the senses and complemented the overall ambiance of the event.
Reflecting on the top moments from the event, it's hard to pinpoint just a few, as the entire experience was captivating. However, being able to explore the different art hubs set up across Shepstone Gardens was a delight in itself.
From the grandeur of the marble halls to the hidden corners of the secret gardens, each location had its own unique charm and showcased art in a distinct way.
Additionally, attending the artist talks and engaging with the passionate creators behind the artwork added a personal touch to the experience, deepening the connection with the art and the artists themselves.
RMB Latitudes 2023 was an extraordinary event that celebrated the richness and diversity of art in Africa.