Main Gallery

2019 & 2021 Absa L'Atelier Gerard Sekoto Award winners' exhibition
 

Abongile Sidzumo and Phoka Nyokong - past winners of the prestigious Absa L'Atelier Gerard Sekoto Award
28 October to 18 November 2023
 
Abongile’s “Amagoduka” body of work, which explores themes of migration, land, and class through the repurposing of discarded leather offcuts, has garnered significant attention for its unique perspective and its emphasis on the often-overlooked suffering and violence experienced by black communities. His art captures the essence of specific spaces and their impact on people's life journeys, highlighting the importance of place and the healing power of spending time with loved ones.  “This collaborative showcase with Phoka is a testament to the great potential of art to bridge gaps and pave a way for people like myself and Phoka. It's an opportunity for us to combine our creative expressions and offer a visual dialogue that sparks conversations and insights. Our art is a conversation with the world, and this exhibition promises to be a dynamic exchange of ideas and emotions.” says 2021 Gerard Sekoto award winner Abongile Sidzumo.
 
Phoka Nyokong’s “Museum of New Hymns for the Confused” presents a thought-provoking collection that challenges viewers to contemplate the politics and poetics of therapeutic culture. His art reshapes local West African tales through a detailed historical lens, inviting the audience to explore the intersection of Western anthropology, ethnology, museology, religion, psychology, and African cultural heritage.   “This exhibition with Abongile is worth the experience. Together, we aim to challenge preconceptions, inspire, and offer a visual journey that invites viewers to engage with art on a profound level. I extend my deepest appreciation to Absa L'Atelier for their unwavering support and belief in the power of art. This journey as the 2019 Gerard Sekoto Award winner has been a remarkable one, and Absa’s support has been instrumental in my artistic growth,” says Phoka.