Opening Reception Speech by Chepape Makgato for the 40th Annual Matric Exhibition of Kimberley Art Centre at William Humphreys Art Gallery
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, students, teachers, and families,
It is both an honour and a pleasure to welcome you to the 40th Annual Matric Exhibition of the Kimberley Art Centre here at the William Humphreys Art Gallery. This exhibition is a celebration of creativity, talent, and the voices of our youth, showcasing the remarkable work of the class of 2024.
This year’s exhibition is a multifaceted exploration of a range of themes that reflect the realities of our time. The artworks before you engage with significant social issues such as Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, birth, religion, oppression, beauty, womanhood, education, and the joys of life captured in family albums. The students have poured their hearts and minds into their creations, and it is evident that each piece is a product of thorough research and thoughtful consideration.
We are privileged to witness the creativity and ingenuity of these young artists, who draw inspiration from those who came before them. For instance, Helene Wiid’s piece, LIGHT OF VERMEER, pays homage to the iconic Mona Lisa, merging classical beauty with contemporary expression. Similarly, Rethabile Maishoane’s work echoes the narratives of Lebohang Motaung and Delmaine Donson, using hair and beauty as powerful metaphors to tell their own stories.
The class of 2024 is not afraid to explore and push the boundaries of their artistic imaginations. They embrace the possibilities of creation with a fearless spirit, knowing that whether they succeed or fail, they are always moving forward. Alex Smith’s installation, Bridge, exemplifies this courage as she pieces together family histories, skillfully bridging the gap between the living and the departed. In her work, we can see influences from the likes of Damien Hirst, inviting us to reflect on the complexity of our connections.
We also have Skype Joseph’s illuminating interactive installation, Mind, Body and Soul, which invites us to contemplate the deeper connections between our inner selves. Zaydeen Petersen reminds us of the courage and sacrifice of the June 16 generation, depicting Hector Pieterson being carried away amidst the struggle for fair education. Similarly, Tshitlho Nthato’s installation, featuring a striking red dress strung to black shoes, evokes the powerful imagery of Mary Sibande, resonating with themes of identity and memory.
Each artist featured in this exhibition, including Smith Dorathea, Amore Du Toit, Hanneke Naude, Marissa Benadie, Tholang Phayane, Ashante Swarts, Kekeletso Molema, and Mphonyana Ndlovu, brings their unique talents to the fore. Their work fills us with hope and reassurance that the future of the arts is in capable hands.
I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students, as well as their dedicated teachers and supportive parents, who have guided them through this artistic journey. Your hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for your contributions to the arts.
As the William Humphreys Art Gallery, the management under directorship of Nelly Mkhize, council and staff, we are proud to host this annual exhibition of the Kimberley Art Centre. Each year, it brings a vibrant energy and the promise of a brighter future to our gallery, reminding us why we exist as custodians of art and culture.
As we open this exhibition, I encourage our artists to continue telling their stories and for our audience to engage actively with the works on display. Your participation enriches the experience and fosters a deeper understanding of the themes presented.
I wish all our artists a bright future in the ever-evolving art industry and hereby declare the 40th Annual Matric Exhibition of the Kimberley Art Centre officially open.
Thank you.
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