Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi, whose work Who are We and Where are We Goin? is a centre piece in the When We See Us : A Century of Black Figuration in Painting exhibition at Zeitz MOCAA, participated in their recent Artist Talk, and we are privileged to have her on this week’s Sanlam Arts Round Up.
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“Who are We and Where are We Goin?” the title of Ma Mmakgabo’s painting, in the Triumph & Emancipation section of the exhibition, begs the question of our past and our future. The answer, she explains, is in allowing her to be guided by her ancestors, hear the voices from within and through creativity to find our voices. Better communication to our past helps us find our way forward.
Ma Mmakgabo emphasises that independence is crucial to creativity. Receiving donations leads to domination. She has always acted independently and remained free of obligations that restricts creativity. Voices must be allowed to grow from within.
Zeitz MOCAA is recognised for creating a space for artists, particularly from Africa to communicate and see each other. This is a start – what we can do after seeing each other. We are seeing our way ahead especially for the youth. These are the voices left for us and Zeitz MOCAA has brought this exhibition together to help us find the answers.
WHAT: Mmakgoba Helen Sebidi – When We See Us : A Century of Black Figuration in Painting
WHERE: Zeitz MOCAA, Â Silo District, S Arm Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town 8001
WHEN: until 03 SEPTEMBER 2023 | Tues – Sun, 10 am – 6 pm
INFO: E communications@zeitzmocaa.museum |  VISIT  LEAD PHOTO: Mmapula Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi (b.1943, Marapyane, South Africa) Who are We and Where are We Goin? 2004-2008 Oil on canvas 236 x 331cm.
Courtesy of Siphiwo Ralo Family Art Collection
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South African History Online
“The life-history of the struggle of this consummate artist stands as a metaphor for our collective struggle to define ourselves as a nation. Mmapula Mmakgoba Helen Sebidi’s work was driven by her innate need to express herself through art, her adversity and challenges, and therefore reminds us of where we come from, and prompts us towards our future. Her body of work continues to nourish our collective soul as a nation.
The South African Government bestowed Mmapula Mmakgoba Helen Sebidi with the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver at the National Orders awards on 19 October 2004 for her excellent contribution to the field of visual and traditional arts and craft.” South African History Online SAHOÂ
