Conversations – Layers of Memory showcases bold works by fearless young artists

By Tonderai Chiyindiko
All photos by Khaya Madungandaba

Hosted as part of First Thursdays on Loveday at Weed Lovers Market in Marshalltown, the second iteration of the Conversations – Layers of Memory exhibition curated by Khaya Madungandaba features Bongiwe ‘b.offgridd’ Buthelezi and Mcendisi ‘King’ Nkosi.

The exhibition by this youthful duo is both refreshing and playful as they each engage with contemporary themes using their unique and signature styles to bring to life art pieces which are striking and deeply engaging.

Buthelezi’s work is rooted in what she refers to as “Neo-Archival” experiences drawn from “Black, femme communities, lineages and familial spaces” whilst Nkosi’s work features reimagined human figures and forms part of his larger “The Artwork About Nothing” series.

For curator Madungandaba who works through the organisation Express: ON, the works by these two artists who both use similar tools and techniques is complementary to the overall curatorial vision.

“The works are laid side-by-side on the wall, each image in relation to the other tell a story of struggle and conquest in dream-like space”, says Madungandaba.

For Nkosi, his work is all about making the viewer unsettled and see ordinary things in new ways. In explaining one of his artworks featured in the exhibition, he says it is about “…abandoning linear perspective (and) creates a sense of disorientation and wonder, inviting the viewer to navigate a realm where time and space are fluid”.

The Conversations – Layers of Memory exhibition is currently showing at Weed Lovers Market in Marshalltown and will close at the end of May, 2025.