Celebrating the Legacy of Esther Mahlangu: A Retrospective

In February 2024, the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town unveiled "Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective," an extensive exhibition celebrating over seven decades of Dr. Esther Mahlangu's artistic journey. Curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, the exhibition features more than 100 artworks, including the iconic BMW 525i Art Car from 1991, painted mannequins, and collaborative prints with Nelson Mandela. Following its Cape Town debut, the exhibition moved to the Wits Art Museum in Johannesburg, where it is on display until April 17, 2025. An international tour is planned, with a U.S. stop scheduled for early 2026.

Born in 1935 in Middelburg, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, Dr. Esther Mahlangu is a celebrated visual artist and cultural ambassador of the Ndebele people. She began painting at the age of 10, learning traditional Ndebele mural techniques from her mother and grandmother. These techniques involve intricate geometric patterns and vibrant colors, traditionally used to decorate the exteriors of homes. Mahlangu's innovative approach involved transferring these traditional designs from adobe cow-dung walls to unconventional mediums like canvas, metal, and even automobiles. She often used brushes made from chicken feathers and signed her beadwork with her initials, "E M."

In 1989, Mahlangu gained international recognition at the French art exposition "Magiciens de la Terre" (Magicians of the World). Two years later, she made history as the first African artist commissioned by BMW to create an "Art Car," painting a BMW 525i with Ndebele motifs. This groundbreaking collaboration earned her global acclaim and cemented her place in contemporary art. The car was later exhibited at prestigious venues such as the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C., and the British Museum in London. Her designs have also been featured on British Airways planes and in collaborations with brands like Fiat and Rolls-Royce, showcasing the fusion of Ndebele heritage with modernity.

Curator Nontobeko Ntombela emphasized Mahlangu's pioneering role in the art world, stating, "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."

Mahlangu's work has been instrumental in promoting Ndebele culture on a global stage. By adapting traditional designs to contemporary mediums, she has bridged the gap between indigenous art forms and modern art, challenging and expanding the narrative of African art. Her efforts have not only preserved but also revitalized Ndebele artistic traditions, inspiring new generations of artists.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Mahlangu is deeply committed to preserving Ndebele culture. She established an art school in her hometown to teach young girls traditional painting techniques, ensuring the continuation of her community's artistic legacy. Mahlangu has transcended cultural and geographic boundaries through her work, transforming Ndebele art into a global phenomenon while maintaining its traditional roots.

In 2018, Dr. Mahlangu was presented with two honorary doctorates. In 2019, she was appointed as Officer of Arts and Letters, France's highest decoration for contribution to the arts. The Department of Arts and Culture published a book in her honor, and she received an award from the United Nations in Johannesburg. In 2020, she became the first artist in the world to be commissioned to paint an artwork for the 'gallery' of a new Rolls-Royce Phantom, which they named 'The Mahlangu' in her honor.

The retrospective exhibition, "Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective," was inaugurated at the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town in February 2024. It featured over 100 artworks, including her iconic BMW 525i Art Car from 1991, painted mannequins, and collaborative prints with Nelson Mandela. Following its Cape Town debut, the exhibition moved to the Wits Art Museum in Johannesburg, running from November 20, 2024, to April 17, 2025. The retrospective is scheduled to tour internationally, with a stop in the United States in early 2026.

This retrospective serves as a testament to Dr. Esther Mahlangu's enduring legacy, celebrating her contributions to art and culture while inspiring future generations.