Discover the Essence of Africa in the works of Siphamandla Ex, Lauren Ratcliffe and Ruan Jooste at The Artists Gallery in the City Centre.
Siphamandla Ex
His art revolves around the richness of the Black experience in everyday life, steering away from narratives solely focused on struggle and poverty. Instead, he celebrates the multifaceted nature of Black identity and the vibrant tapestry of Black life. Siphamandla Ex is based in Johannesburg but is originally from Bilanyoni village in northern KwaZulu-Natal. He grew up under the care of his grandmother.
Though he never pursued formal education in visual art, his passion for drawing has been evident since childhood. His dedication to his craft has led him to collaborate with various artists over the years, including hosting group exhibitions that showcased well-established names in the art scene. Before pursuing art full-time in 2019, Siphamandla worked as a financial advisor, bringing a unique perspective that blends pragmatism with passion to his artistic practice.
Besides, being an artist, Siphamandla is also a music producer/composer, and a basketball player. One of his aspirations, is to establish a non-profit organisation aimed at keeping children away from the streets. This initiative would offer shelter, nutrition, and recreational programs, ensuring that all children have equal opportunities in life. (See photo above)
Lauren Ratcliffe
Lauren Ratcliffe
Lauren Ratcliffe is a self-trained artist residing in Cape Town. Her subject matter ranges from impressionist landscapes to interpretative abstracts brought to life with considered mark-making and vibrant colour to achieve visually appealing and evocative art.
Lauren matriculated with Art Honours, went on and studied Consumer Science (Psychology) at Stellenbosch University, complemented by a Postgraduate Diploma in Communications from the esteemed Red and Yellow School. She then pursued an MBA at the Graduate School of Business.
Her pieces are an intimate dance of colours and textures, achieved through the thick, buttery application of oil paints, intertwined with the delicate intricacies of acrylics and oil pastels. This unique combination allows her to sculpt layers upon layers, each one a testament to the hidden depths of living. Her technique involves not just the application of colour, but the deliberate layering, revealing the raw, uncharted territories beneath. This process of adding and subtracting, concealing, and unveiling, mirrors the complex nature of emotions.
In essence, her work is an invitation—a journey through chaos and clarity, where each viewer discovers a reflection of their own story. It is a dialogue, ever evolving and infinitely diverse, resonating with the endless nuances of human connection. Through her art, she strives to celebrate the beauty of life in all its forms, inspiring wonder, and fostering empathy in the hearts of those who behold it.
Ruan Jooste
Ruan Jooste
Ruan Jooste was born and raised in Nigel, a small town in Gauteng southeast of Johannesburg, South Africa. In his series of fictional portraits, Jooste infuses charm, sass, and attitude reminiscent of Magic Realism, but with a local, urban edge.
As a young child, he was always seeking a creative outlet. Initially pursuing a passion in fashion design, but soon turned his focus to photography, teaching himself the necessary skills. This experience in design and photography culminated in his current digital art practice.
In 2021, Ruan had his first solo exhibition in Cape Town, which received outstanding feedback. His work has been featured on the cover of the Sunday Times Lifestyle section and in Art Times magazine. Throughout his artistic journey, he has exhibited his work in locations such as Cape Town, the Paris AKAA Art Fair, and New York.
His work is also part of the official RMB collection and has been featured in a Strauss & Co. auction. These opportunities have allowed him to share his art with audiences from various cultural backgrounds, contributing to a rich tapestry of artistic experiences. He has been truly humbled by the support and enthusiasm of a global clientele, with art enthusiasts from around the world acquiring his artworks.
A vivid and exciting group show at The Artists Gallery that you don’t want to miss. AND there’s an additional reason to visit!
ALL IT TAKES IS A REVIEW – AND SOME LUCK. AND THE WINNER IS …
Every six months, the gallery selects a winner that will receive a voucher to the value of ZAR 10,000 to spend in The Artists Gallery. To enter all you have to do is submit a review on Google or TripAdvisor about the gallery. “We are thrilled to announce that this time the prize goes to Michelle H. – congratulations!”
To enter for a chance to win, simply leave a review after your visit to our gallery in Cape Town. Best of luck!
Click here to leave a review
WHAT: Discover the Essence of Africa – Siphamandla Ex, Lauren Ratcliffe and Ruan Jooste
WHERE: The Artists Gallery,
WHEN: April – May, 2024
INFO: T 064 758 1714 | E contact@artistsgallery.co.za | Visit
Artists Gallery [11]The WHAT, WHY & WHERE of the
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