Ndebele painting icon Esther Mahlangu celebrated as newly built studio is handed over to her
By Funeka Bambalele
The scorching heat accompanied by humid air in Mthambothini village in Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga, was just not enough to deter people from celebrating with globally acclaimed Ndebele mural artist, Esther Mahlangu as her newly built art studio was launched.
Built by a coal mining company Thungela, the art studio was handed over to the muralist on Thursday last week at an event that attracted government officials, the corporate world, members of the royal family and the public.
The art studio is situated in her homestead in Mthambothini village, Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga. Mahlangu who is a legend in Ndebele mural painting will use the studio to share knowledge with youth and those who are interested in learning the art skill. Moreover, the art studio will also be used to display creations of other crafters and also store the legend’s work safely.
Born in the heart of South Africa, in the Ndebele nation, on the 11th of November 1935, Mahlangu arrived at the event like a true VIP being dropped right at the entrance of the marquee with a classy car. For someone who has promoted the Ndebele culture to the rest of the world, she deserved the treat.
Accompanied by friend and Ndebele music queen, NothembiMkhwebane, Mahlangu looked overwhelmed by the turnout.
Thungela CEO, July Ndlovu, Thungela CEO said: “As South Africa celebrates Heritage month, Thungela is honoured to contribute to the legacy of an iconic figure whose work has put the Ndebele art on the global map. When the Mpumalanga Government made a call for us to build a structure for DrMahlangu, we heeded the call and came onboard.”
“This art studio will allow her to showcase her work to the local community and to tourists in this province. Here at her home, many will cherish and celebrate this rich Ndebele cultural heritage through her work.”
“Our involvement in this project stems from our deep-rooted presence in the Mpumalanga province, where all our South African operations are situated. In addition, as a business we are committed to respecting and preserving the culture, traditions, customs, and values of the communities where we operate.”
After all the speeches, Mahlangu came on stage to thank everyone who attended the event.
“Ngithabekhulu which means I’m extremely happy. This studio is not just for me, but for the entire KwaNdebele nation. Today, I am filled with gratitude, and I want to thank Thungela, the Mpumalanga government, our traditional leaders, and partners who were involved in making this art studio possible. This art studio will help inspire local youth, and particularly those interested in the arts. I also hope that tourists and visitors from other cultures will better appreciate our rich Ndebele culture as they interact with my work when they visit the studio
Family spokesperson Betty Moyana said: “We are grateful to Thungela for building this studio which is part of Gogo’s legacy. As a Ndebele nation this means a lot for our culture and heritage. This studio will empower a lot of young people. We are currently having artists displaying their creations at the gallery and we hope that the gallery will serve its purpose to preserve our culture and heritage while giving others a platform.”
As much as Mahlangu began painting at a tender age of 10, Mahlangu’s first taste of widespread recognition came in 1989, at a European art exhibition titled “Magiciens de la Terre” (Magicians of the World). The exhibition, with its vision of showcasing art from across the world, was a revelation to the European audience, who found themselves entranced by Mahlangu’s unique style and expression.
In 1991, Mahlangu received an opportunity that further solidified her place in the global art scene. BMW, known for commissioning renowned artists to create unique “Art Cars,” extended an invitation to Mahlangu.