Boyce Magandela is a deft draftsman, an artist who can infuse life in his subject. He has his own, unique approach to the art of embroidery, sketching with stitches in brightly colored threads.
Recently he visited the Keiskama Art Project in the Northern Cape, where a group of artisans live who are famous for their tapestries that tell the stories of Africa. His tapestries/thread/ paintings have become increasingly rich in texture and display greater creative freedom since his immersive experience with the Keiskama Art Project. [Keiskama Art is an exhibition on view accross the road at the AVA Gallery until 16 April]
In Boyce Magandela’s words:
The Men Gathering 2025
“But now, with these works, I decided to work with men on blanket. There are many types of blankets that are used in our culture as a symbol of reaching another stage of life meaning, from being a boy to be a man and I’m trying to show the challenges men go through.
The check blanket is given by the elders when they welcome a new man as one of them. With this body of works I’m putting my experience and the journey of being a man.”
Blankets play a significant role in African culture. The Basotho blanket, for example. is ‘wrapped in history’. Sanlam curated an exhibition ‘Sutha Ke Fete’ meaning ‘Make way so I may pass’ highlighting the symbolic meaning of the Basotho blanket exploring its role in Lesotho’s national identity and contemporary cultural practices.
The fact that these woolen blankets are worn has influenced the modern S A fashion industry. Boyce occasionally uses the traditional blankets as canvas for his stitched narratives, but generally chooses the checked fabric, Symbols and metaphors are apparent in his use and application of the patterned ground.
The Shepard II 2025
Lucky enough to have had a sneak preview of the work by Boyce Magandela and hugely intrigued and impressed by both the richness of the texture and the imagery. LOTS to see and enjoy!
WHAT: Boyce Magandela – SoloExhibition
WHERE: The Cape Gallery CC, 60 Church Street, Cape Town 8001
WHEN: First Thursday, April 3rd @4pm Closing: 30th April 2025 | Gallery Hours: Mon to Fri: 09h30 to 17h00, Sat: 10h00 to 14h00
INFO: T +27 21 4235309 | E web@capegallery.co.za | VISIT
LEAD PHOTO: BOYCE MAGANDELA, The Church Members 2025
