Esther Mahlangu: To Paint Is in My Heart

Thomas Girst

Hardcover

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Esther Mahlangu is globally acclaimed for her bright and bold abstract paintings with vivid, geometric patterns that are rooted in South Africa's Ndebele artistic tradition. She was a disruptor from an early age, becoming the first person to reimagine Ndebele visual artistic style--historically used for decorating houses--on painting media such as canvas, and has become a much-loved cultural ambassador of the Ndebele Nation.

Esther Mahlangu: To Paint is in My Heart celebrates Mahlangu's remarkable journey as a pioneer of contemporary African art, whose vibrant and distinctive paintings have captured the hearts of many worldwide. Through a series of interviews with Mahlangu conducted by Hans Ulrich Obrist, Azu Nwagbogu, and Thomas Girst, readers will gain insight into her creative process, inspiration, and the cultural significance of her work. With stunning visuals and engaging narratives, this book offers an inspiring experience to the reader.

Book Details

Publisher: Thames & Hudson
Publish Date: Jan 21st, 2025
Pages: 144
Language: English
Edition: undefined - undefined
Dimensions: 0.00in - 0.00in - 0.00in - 0.00lb
EAN: 9780500028124
Categories: • Individual Artists - Monographs• African• History - 20th & 21st Century

About the Author

Obrist, Hans Ulrich: - Hans Ulrich Obrist is Artistic Director at Serpentine in London and Senior Advisor at LUMA Arles. Prior to this, he was the Curator of the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.

Nwagbogu, Azu: - Azu Nwagbogu is a curator, writer, and art collector. He is the founder and director of the African Artists' Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting African art and artists. Nwagbogu was formerly elected as the director of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art in South Africa. He is also the founder of the Lagos Photo Festival, an annual international photography festival held in Lagos, Nigeria.

Girst, Thomas: - Thomas Girst studied art history, American studies, and German literature at Hamburg University and New York University. Since 2003, he is the global head of cultural engagement at the BMW Group. Girst's recent books include Art, Literature, and the Japanese American Internment; The Duchamp Dictionary; BMW Art Cars; and 100 Secrets of the Art World.

Praise for this book

Esther Mahlangu's art is a symphony of colors and traditions, weaving together a narrative that transcends borders and generations. Her upcoming book is a treasure trove, unlocking the secrets of her creative process and inviting readers into her rich cultural tapestry. I'm beyond excited for more people to delve into Esther's world, where each brushstroke is a testament to her unparalleled talent and the power of art to unite us all.--John Legend

Esther Mahlangu's work is a vibrant contemporary testimony to the infinite spectrum of African geometric abstraction that stems from the wealth of traditional aesthetics of her Ndebele community.--Koyo Kouoh, Executive Director and Chief Curator, Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA)

Esther Mahlangu is an inspiration . . . her valuable contribution to contemporary art has not gone unnoticed.--Trevor Noah, comedian and author

Esther Mahlangu isn't just a contemporary artist; she's a powerhouse. Her art shares her culture with the world. Looking at her paintings is like listening to great music--it's super inspiring and shows true artistry.--Mike Dean, record producer and songwriter

Esther Mahlangu is one of the greatest living artists on the planet. Her work is the epitome of the convergence of the vibrancy of African modern and contemporary art traditions and western modernism, marrying the vernacular art of the pre-colonial with the ever dynamic momentary of the post-colonial. Like the greatest artworks of humanity, each viewing offers a new lesson in reading and seeing art.--Franklin Sirmans, Director, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Esther Mahlangu continues to bring light and joy to the world through her colorful patterns that evoke ancient motifs while still generating innovative and contemporary images that mark her position as one of Africa's most important living artists. This book sheds new light on her work, and will hopefully serve as a salve to the world's current chaos.--Eric Shiner, President, Powerhouse Arts

A profound tribute to Mahlangu's lifelong dedication to her craft and her community. Through her art, she transcends cultural boundaries, showcasing the intricate patterns and vivid colors of Ndebele art to the world.-- "Jing Daily Culture" (9/25/2024 12:00:00 AM)

Esther Mahlangu is an invitation to step into her world, where vibrant hues dance with tradition, and every stroke tells a story of heritage and innovation. To engage with Esther's work is to experience the pulsating energy of Ndebele artistry that beckons you to explore, discover, and be inspired. I'm excited for the world to continue to go on this exhilarating journey with Esther, where the past meets the present, and creativity knows no limits.--Larry Ossei-Mensah, curator