The Mitochondria Gallery is presents a solo exhibition by the talented artist, Zwelethu Machepha. The exhibition, titled “Lefa La Bontatarona: Our Inheritance,” is a celebration of the artist’s cultural heritage and personal journey.The exhibition shows the relationship between our ancestors, grandparents and our parents subject to what they left us.
In ancient times, African stories and inheritance were typically passed down orally, without the formalities of Westernized death wills. There was no set procedure for becoming a king; it could happen suddenly and without warning. I remember my grandmother, before she passed away, leaving behind a list of cultural traditions that we, her granddaughters, should follow when a man comes to ask for our hand in marriage. These traditions included items such as a bucket of honey, mgomba wa ndizi, and a heifer.
“Lefa La Bontatarona: Our Inheritance” is an exhibition that similarly traces our ancestral lineage. It celebrates the various contexts, experiences, gifts, and words of wisdom that we inherit from our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. The exhibition aims to deepen our understanding of our heritage while also providing a cultural timeline that has a great impact on our spiritual well being as Africans.
In this exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse collection of Machepha’s recent paintings and sculptures. The artist skillfully utilizes embroidery as a metaphor to convey a connection with our spiritual selves. Through the use of fine line pens, Machepha provides a technical connection that complements the embroidery.
In addition, the artist incorporates watercolor to suggest fluidity and a connection with other dimensions, forming an underlying divine connection between everything. The exhibition not only showcases the artist’s personal history but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. Machepha’s work is deeply rooted in African spirituality, and his pieces are symbolic references to ancestral traditions and beliefs, making for a truly captivating experience.
Throughout the exhibition, Machepha’s use of color and pattern is mesmerizing. His works feature a vibrant palette of colors that evoke feelings of joy, celebration, and vitality. The intricate patterns and symbols that he incorporates into his pieces add depth and meaning to each work. This invites the viewers to explore the stories behind for them.’ Lefa La Bontatarona: Our Inheritance” is a beautiful celebration of culture, identity, and human connection. His work,invites us to explore our own personal histories and connect with the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. The exhibition is a must-see art enthusiasts and artists. The exhibition runs from April 15th to May 15th, 2023, at the Mitochondria Gallery. Visitors can attend the exhibition in person or view it virtually through the gallery’s website.
