Cultural Spaces

CURATED BY SHONISANI NETSHIA AND PULENO PLESSIE

In collaboration with: Adalglsa Da Conceicao Mendes, Aobakwe Matsepola, Joshua Maharaj, Joy Mwall, Khumo Rasebltse, Madalena Alfonso, Naledl Shange, Nomfundo Mohlala, Philadelphia Makwakwa, and Tseplso Molaba.

This exhibition embodies the rich and multifaceted ways in which all of the selected Top 10 emerging artists explore notions of cultural spaces embedded in African spirituality, language, intersectionality, the body, and materiality.

Through varied works, Cultural Spaces invites viewers to engage with these overlapping themes, signifying how identities, histories, and futures are shaped and reimagined. Some of the works draw on spiritual practices, rituals, and symbols that are liminal and transcend space and time, offering a lens through which to understand and grapple with the resilience and adaptability of African spiritual traditions. Here, spoken and written language is (de)constructed and embodied, while the body-present or absent-becomes a site of communication and liberation, questioning and subverting the weight of gendered and political histories while embracing the potential for rebirth and transformation.

The various materials used carry stories and evoke emotions, revealing intricate narratives of resilience, endurance, and empowerment. By highlighting voices that are often marginalized, these works interrogate power dynamics and celebrate the diverse experiences within our democratic society.

Cultural Spaces was made possible by Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.