A Bold Celebration of South African Culture and Art
The Wits Arts Museum in Johannesburg’s vibrant Braamfontein neighborhood is currently hosting a dazzling exhibition that honors the life and work of 89-year-old South African artist, Esther Mahlangu.
Known for her iconic geometric patterns inspired by traditional Ndebele art, Mahlangu’s creations have gained global recognition, and this retrospective showcases her incredible journey.
At the heart of the exhibition stands the boldly patterned BMW 525, a masterpiece Mahlangu painted in 1991. This internationally renowned work, commissioned by the German automobile giant, has returned to South Africa after three decades abroad. 
Mahlangu’s Contribution to South African and Global Art
Curator Nontobeko Ntombela said the exhibition seeks to highlight Mahlangu’s artistic significance beyond her cultural representation.
“Mahlangu dared to travel an uncharted path during a time when Black women artists were systemically overlooked. I hope when people see just how much she has done, they will realize the magnitude of what she has offered to the arts,” Ntombela said.
The retrospective includes rarely seen artworks, traditional Ndebele paintings known as umgwalo, and personal items such as a letter Mahlangu wrote to Nelson Mandela. This letter, penned during South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy, thanks Mandela for his sacrifices.
Promoting Ndebele Culture Through Art
For decades, Mahlangu has used her artistry to elevate and preserve Ndebele culture, becoming one of its most recognized global representatives. The exhibition also features a documentary that narrates her upbringing in rural Mpumalanga province and her journey to international acclaim.
“Some narratives tend to overly emphasize the cultural aspect without balancing her art as a profound artistic expression,” Ntombela noted. “This exhibition attempts to explore her work across multiple disciplines.”
Many of the displayed pieces were secured from local and international collectors, a process that took over two years. Ntombela revealed that the museum had to raise significant funds to bring Mahlangu’s works back to South Africa for the exhibition.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
A recipient of South Africa’s prestigious Order of Ikhamanga in silver, Mahlangu briefly attended the exhibition’s launch before returning to her Mpumalanga home. Her residence, adorned with her signature colorful designs, continues to attract tourists from around the world.
The exhibition will run at the Wits Arts Museum until April 17, 2025, before embarking on an international tour, starting in the United States in 2026.
Esther Mahlangu’s art bridges cultural preservation and modern artistic expression. What part of her legacy resonates most with you? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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