Esther Mahlangu, 89, born in the rural town of Middelburg, Mpumalanga, South Africa, is a globally renowned artist who has brought the traditional art of the Ndebele people to the international stage. Her bold and vibrant geometric patterns, rooted in Ndebele culture, have transcended their origins as wall murals and become a key element of contemporary art worldwide. Mahlangu has dedicated her life to preserving and innovating Ndebele art, transforming it from a regional practice into a globally celebrated form of artistic expression.
Here are some facts about the South African art icon:
Birth and Heritage:
Esther Mahlangu, born in 1935 in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, South Africa, belongs to the Ndebele community, a group known for its rich artistic traditions.
Ndebele Art Tradition: Mahlangu’s artistic roots lie in Ndebele wall painting, a tradition passed down through generations of women in her community. These murals, traditionally painted during special occasions, feature bold geometric patterns.
At the age of 10, her mother and grandmother taught her how to paint, and she learned the sacred Ndebele design principles that would form the foundation of her career.
The Ndebele people’s artistic heritage is passed from mother to daughter, with young women being trained in beadwork and wall painting during a period of seclusion after puberty.
Innovator: Mahlangu is credited with reimagining traditional Ndebele designs by adapting them to new mediums, such as canvas, ceramics, and even automobiles, thereby bridging traditional and contemporary art.
Esther Mahlangu’s work has been exhibited around the world, including in Australia, the United States, Japan, and Europe, earning her a significant international following.
Automobile Collaborations: In 1991, Mahlangu became the first woman and first African artist to participate in the prestigious BMW Art Car Collection, transforming a BMW car into a work of art using traditional Ndebele designs. In 2020, she made history as the first artist to be commissioned to paint the interior of a Rolls-Royce Phantom, which was named “The Mahlangu” in her honour.
Use of Modern Media: Mahlangu was one of the first artists to apply traditional Ndebele designs to unconventional surfaces, such as cars, motorcycles, and even aeroplanes, gaining global attention for her innovative approach. She paints freehand without measurements or sketches, using high-contrast, vibrant paints. Her designs are abstract but convey deeper meanings through their symbolism and geometry.
Global Recognition: In addition to her artistic endeavours, Mahlangu has played an important role in promoting Ndebele culture globally, serving as a cultural ambassador for South Africa. Mahlangu has received numerous prestigious awards, including three honorary doctorates, France’s Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters, and recognition as a “Living Legend” by the Department of Arts and Culture in South Africa. Her work is highly sought after by celebrities, with notable collectors including Oprah Winfrey, Usher, John Legend, and David Bowie, among others.
Community Involvement:
Mahlangu actively contributes to her community in Mpumalanga, where she continues to mentor young women in the Ndebele painting tradition and promotes sustainable development.
Legacy: At over 80 years old, Mahlangu remains active in the art world, holding exhibitions and continuing to inspire both young artists and established art collectors globally.
Esther Mahlangu’s extraordinary career has not only transformed the global art scene but has also ensured that the Ndebele people’s cultural heritage will continue to thrive for future generations.