Samanthole Arts Foundation

Visiting Nelson Makamo's studio in Johannesburg was a truly immersive experience that seamlessly blended functionality with artistic inspiration. The studio space, designed to accommodate both work and dining, stood out as a beacon of cleanliness and orderliness in an industry often characterized by messy studios. From the moment I stepped into the reception area, I was warmly welcomed by Makamo and his colleagues, setting the tone for a memorable visit. As Makamo directed me towards the working space, I passed through a simple yet inviting kitchen where two more colleagues, dressed as chefs, were busy at work, adding to the welcoming ambiance of the space. Nelson Makamo and Chepape Makgato in Makamo's studio, Johannesburg. February 2024.  Entering the working area, I was greeted by the sight of elegant white swinging sofas and leather Chesterfield sofas, serving as the perfect backdrop for Makamo's latest creations. Among them, one piece, larger than life, imme

"TSA SEFALENG," Richard Mokgomme's third solo exhibition currently showcased at OOVOOKOO Gallery in Selby, Johannesburg, serves as a poignant reflection on the multifaceted issues permeating South African society. Through a diverse array of artworks, Mokgomme tackles socio-political complexities, post-apartheid realities, and the profound impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. As viewers navigate the exhibition space, they are confronted with a visceral journey through the country's history, as well as its present challenges, including unemployment, corruption, and unfulfilled promises. The exhibition's title, "Tsa Sefaleng," hints at the theatrical nature of democracy, inviting viewers to witness the unfolding drama from the artist's unique perspective. Re Aparetswe Ke Leru Le Lentsho, Collage and Acrylic on Brown Paper, 2024. Photo: From Facebook  What sets "TSA SEFALENG" apart is Mokgomme's bold juxtaposition of political and c

Prepare to be moved and immersed in the powerful narrative of "For Colored Girls" at the Nelson Mandela Theatre. Directed by James Ngcobo, this adaptation of Ntozake Shange's iconic work takes full advantage of the thrust stage, enveloping the audience in the unfolding drama from all sides. The creative team "For Coloured Girls," led by Ngcobo, includes Musical Director Mandla Mkaba, Choreographer Lulu Mlangeni, Lighting Designer Enos Ramaroko, AV specialists Jurgen Meekel and Andrea Rolfes, and Accent Coach Yewande James. Featuring an exceptional cast including Mona Monyane, Refilwe Modiselle, Swankie Mafoko, Thuto Gaasenwe, Siphesihle Ndaba, Danica Jones, Boitumelo Lesejane, and Sioban King, the production promises to transport audiences into the heart of the female narrative with unmatched power and grace. "For Colored Girls WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/ WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF" is a captivating stage production that showcases the raw an

Rangoato Hlasane's doctoral submission, "Kwaitoscapes - Reading The Histographic Narratives in Visual Cultures by Black Youth," stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary storytelling and artistic expression. Described as an "interdiscursive video," the duology comprising "Sesasedi Sa Tsodio" and "Sa Koša Ke Lerole" is a mesmerizing fusion of visual and sonic elements, immersing viewers in a rich tapestry of cultural narratives. Photo Courtesy of Rangoato Hlasane.  At its core, "Kwaitoscapes" unravels the enigmatic tale of Tsodio, a figure deeply entrenched in the collective consciousness of Sesotho-speaking communities. Through a masterful blend of mural paintings, landscape art, voiceovers, musical humming, drum beats, proverbial wisdom, dance performances, poetry, and more, Hlasane breathes life into Tsodio's haunting journey. From the mystique of Tsodio's ghostly encounters to the interplay of co

Thami Mnyele: A Multifaceted Talent Thami Mnyele, the renowned South African artist, was not only a visionary in the visual arts but also a versatile performer, showcasing his talent on the theatrical stage. Beyond his iconic contributions to the art world, Mnyele's foray into acting adds another layer of depth to his legacy. In 1971, Mnyele, alongside Mongane Wally Serote, co-founded the Mihloti Black Theatre, a platform dedicated to amplifying African voices and narratives. Within this creative space, Mnyele didn't confine himself to the canvas; instead, he embraced the stage, embodying characters and delivering powerful performances. One notable instance was his involvement in a play inspired by the teachings of Malcolm X, titled *Message to the Grass Roots*. In this production, Mnyele not only portrayed a character but also immersed himself in the essence of Malcolm X's philosophy, resonating deeply with the themes of empowerment and social justice. Reflecting on his th

In Djeli a play staged at The Arts Theatre in Observatory Cape Town, is the captivating short stagepiece by Katlego Chale, directed by Mmatumisang Motsisi with the assistance of Tiffani Dlamini, audiences are transported to the heart of ancient Mali in the 12th century. Set amidst the flickering glow of seven lanterns, symbolizing the mystical convergence of six lit lights and one shrouded in darkness, the stage is imbued with an aura of mystery and intrigue, mirroring the enigmatic depths of African mythology. Peggy Tunyiswa (Oba), Busi Maphumulo (Alima) and Mthuthuzeli Zimba (Douma). Photo Courtesy of Katlego Chale  As three figures emerge onto the stage, their movements synchronized with the haunting melodies of Oumou Sangare's songs in the Bambara language, the audience is enveloped in a sensory journey that transcends time and space. Mthuthuzeli Zimba and Busi Maphumulo embody the roles of Douma and Alima, the non-identical twins whose intertwined destinies weave a

Stepping into the International Convention Centre Cape Town for this year's edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair felt akin to entering MoMA in New York City, with a bustling crowd eagerly queuing to immerse themselves in the world of art. After a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the fair roared back to life, showcasing an incredible variety of booths from across the globe, with a notable emphasis on local artists and galleries. Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2024 .  One of the highlights was the impressive array of works by Kimati Mafafo, presented by Ebony Gallery, offering a captivating perspective. However, it was the WALL booth from Cape Town that truly stole the show for me, boasting a stellar collection of South African masters alongside emerging talents, providing a privileged opportunity for the public to engage with these significant works. Kimathi Mafafo, Sisters in Unison III, hand and machine stitched embroidery

The Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town is currently hosting a captivating retrospective exhibition titled "Then I Knew That I Was Good At Painting" by the esteemed Dr. Esther Mahlangu, curated by Dr. Nontobeko Ntombela. This exhibition offers a profound journey through Mahlangu's remarkable career, spanning from 1980 to 2023, showcasing her evolution as an artist and cultural icon. Panel of 88 Block Paintings to mark 88 years of Mme Esther Mahlangu. Photo Courtesy of Khehla Chepape Makgato Photography As visitors step into the gallery, they are greeted by a poignant timeline, tracing Mahlangu's formative years at Botshabelo Missionary Station, where she dedicated almost a decade to mastering the art of painting professionally. This timeline serves as a testament to Mahlangu's perseverance and dedication to her craft, highlighting her numerous exhibitions, awards, commissions, and travels over the years. One of the exhibition's stando

"Dolly Rathebe - Queen of African Jazz, Blues & Mbaqanga" by Nokuthula Mazibuko Msimang vividly captures the multifaceted life of a remarkable woman. The biography beautifully weaves together the threads of Dolly Rathebe's journey as a cover girl, actress, model, lover, and shebeen Queen across Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, and Mabopane. Msimang skillfully paints a tapestry of the vibrant arts and pop culture of 1950s South Africa, showcasing the resilience and trailblazing spirit of a black woman who defied societal norms to become a model and film star. This book is a captivating exploration of Rathebe's pioneering role in an era where such achievements were not the norm for black individuals, providing a valuable glimpse into a transformative period in history. In a captivating narrative, Msimang skillfully guides readers through the vibrant tapestry of Dolly Rathebe's life. Drawing on the voices of friends, colleagues, arts writers, and music hist

The art of being human 18 Oct 2015 Mandy de Waal and Jon Pienaar The term “ubuntu” has been overtraded in recent years. The South Africanism that is a philosophy is now a brand. There’s an Ubuntu Cola and Mark Shuttleworth’s version of an open-source operating system, called Ubuntu Linux, which also features a custom font called ubuntu. In popular culture there’s a character named Ubuntu who features in the satirical animated TV cartoon called The Goode Family, and in the Portuguese second division there’s The Ubuntu Rugby team that is attached to Academia Ubuntu, a nonformal education project for African immigrants. Add to this businesses such as Ubuntu Gaz, Ubuntu Plumbing and the masses of other business named after the popular philosophy, and one gets a sense of how diluted this ideology has become. Returning to the roots of ubuntu  But artist Khehla Chepape Makgato is giving this uniquely African philosophy new resonance, because every aspect of his work as an artist and a human b