Masonwabe Ntloko‘s debut solo exhibition, “ILISO LO MOYA,” is currently on display at Katmo Gallery. The exhibition draws inspiration from the spiritual nuances and Xhosa heritage that are central to Ntloko’s artistic expression. This marks the first time that Ntloko has exhibited his paintings in a solo show, making it a significant milestone in his career.
Translated as “The Eye of the Spirit,” the exhibition “Iliso Lomoya” centers on his spiritual development and perception of the world. The show delves into themes of identity, transformation, healing, and the power of the human spirit through a range of mixed-media works and paintings. Ntloko’s use of color, texture, and form in his pieces creates a visually and emotionally stimulating experience for viewers. The exhibition is anchored in Ntloko’s personal journey of spiritual growth, which he hopes will resonate with viewers and encourage them to reflect on their own paths of self-discovery. The aim of the various artistic mediums used in the exhibition is to foster an immersive experience that inspires viewers to explore their own inner truths.
To mark the commencement of his month-long exhibition, Masonwabe Ntloko developed a personalized Instagram filter. The show features a collection of completed paintings alongside “The Process Room,” which offered visitors a glimpse into Ntloko’s studio and showcased his unfinished works, including “Ingilosi” and “Amehlo Omoya.” As a tribute to his spiritual and religious heritage, Ntloko displayed a prayer in Xhosa, by his mother, on the wall as part of the exhibition. He expressed his intention to include the same prayer in all of his future exhibitions, emphasizing the significance of this piece to his artistic identity.
Masonwabe Ntloko is a designer and illustrator who uses his art to weave captivating stories. He graduated in textile design and draws most of his inspiration from his birthplace, the village of Engwane, and the small-town of Edutywa where he grew up. His work is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of South Africa, particularly isiXhosa, and other ethnic groups. His personal experiences and the ordinary lives of black people are among the valuable elements that he seeks to emulate in his designs.
Through his commercial work with notable brands such as Airloom, Yogi Sip, Warner Music Africa, Sony Music, Universal Music, the Charlotte Maxeke Institution, Markham, Airloom, the Mandela Legacy, and Rocking the Daisies, he has garnered a reputation for his exceptional skills. Each encounter with these brands has provided him with valuable insights, shaping his creative experience in unique ways.
