Mncedi Madolo and James Thomas, Johannesburg-based artists, have a dynamic dual exhibition of new works opening on Saturday 8 October at Deepest Darkest in their renovated new gallery.
Both mixed media artists explore lived experiences with and within the city of Johannesburg’s varied urban spaces. As an active collaborator to each artist’s practice, the city’s energy and urgency informs a shared narrative, but through each artist’s unique perspective.
Mncedi Madolo – Flowers in a DARK ROOM
“Living in a rapidly urbanizing African city brought me closer to the realities of everyday life in the city. I found myself surrounded by people like me, making a living within the constraints of a lower middle-class existence.
At the same time I noticed the severity of the onslaught of print and advertising media selling us our dreams. This presented interesting paradoxes that I started implementing elements of in my work. Magazine covers celebrating “black is beautiful” and flyers advertising fast solutions to personal problems are presented with cartoon sketches mocking the status quo while familiar brands loom in the background.
Many of the materials and images used in the paintings are collected from the street and present themselves as a complex layering of our stories. A lived Black experience of urban South Africa.”.
James Tomas – Pride and Stains
“In the wrinkles of South Africa’s history there are moments that evoke pride and patriotism. There are also those that are simply stains on the fabric of the nation. This juxtaposition is an extension of the far broader phenomenon of duality in the country.
I often find myself defending my country’s honour. It seems for every stain, there is an equally powerful element of pride.
In this show, I attempt to explore the interaction between the two- past and present. From having the largest private security industry in the world to having one of the most progressive constitutions. South Africa is a thriving oxymoron and I’m trying to digest it. This is a manifestation of the country’s pride and her stains.”
“Join us at the newly renovated gallery this Saturday for the opening of this exciting new show”, reads the invitation!
WHAT: Mncedi Madolo and James Thomas
WHERE: Deepest Darkest, 20 Dixon Street, De Waterkant, Cape Town 8001
WHEN: Opening Sat 8 Oct, 12pm – 5pm. Exhibition Ends 18 Nov
INFO: T +27 (0)79 138 4203 | E info@deepestdarketsart.com | Visit
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