'Esther Mahlangu: Time in Color' Opens at Ross + Kramer Gallery
Showcasing over 30 works by the seminal South African artist, courtesy of No More Rulers.
Ross + Kramer Gallery will present Esther Mahlangu: Time in Color, a solo exhibition showcasing over 30 works by South African artist Dr. Esther Mahlangu courtesy of Cart Dept and No More Rulers. The exhibition is set to open November 21, 2024.
Dr. Mahlangu is celebrated globally for her vibrant, geometric paintings rooted in the centuries-old Ndebele tradition, a cultural practice passed down through generations of women. These designs, originally painted on homes, serve as visual storytelling tools that celebrate heritage and mark significant life events.
Mahlangu’s works reimagine Ndebele motifs for contemporary audiences, blending tradition with innovation. This exhibition spans a decade of her practice (2011–2021) and features a hand-painted BMW Art Car, emphasizing her groundbreaking role as the first African artist to participate in the prestigious project.
Beyond her artistic legacy, Mahlangu remains dedicated to teaching traditional Ndebele painting and beadwork in her community in Mpumalanga province. Recognized with awards like France’s Officer of Arts and Letters and South Africa’s Order of Ikhamanga, Mahlangu continues to inspire through her rich blend of cultural pride and contemporary expression.
Esther Mahlangu: Time in Color runs through early 2025.
Ross + Kramer Gallery
515 W 27th St.
New York, NY 10065
