Stevenson Gallery, a cornerstone of the contemporary African art scene, with locations in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Amsterdam, is currently presenting When Works Meet, an exhibition designed to foster dynamic conversations between diverse works of art. Running from the 7th of December, 2024, to the 8th of February, 2025, at its Cape Town venue, this exhibition offers a bold reinterpretation of artistic relationships, building upon the gallery’s earlier Juxtapositions series.
Whereas the previous series paired two artists to spark dialogue, When Works Meet features an expansive roster of 50 artists, whose works are presented in innovative pairings and groupings, creating opportunities for unexpected connections and new perspectives. The exhibition takes its title and conceptual framework from a reflection by critic Zoe Hopkins on the exhibitions of Ming Smith and Rotimi Fani-Kayode at the Wexner Center for the Arts. Hopkins observed how placing the works of different artists in close proximity generates a visual and intellectual dialogue that transcends boundaries of time, place, and artistic discipline. Inspired by this idea, When Works Meet invites viewers to explore the evolving nature of artistic creation by placing contemporary and historical works in conversation with one another.
The exhibition showcases an eclectic selection of pieces, including painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media, reflecting the gallery’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.
Highlights include:
Serge Alain Nitegeka, whose Black Subjects: Interior VII employs stark geometric forms to explore themes of displacement and identity.
Viviane Sassen and her evocative photograph Amanita Muscaria, which merges surrealism and natural beauty.
Christo Coetzee’s enigmatic Portrait of a Woman, offering a layered study in abstraction.
Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi’s Spectator II (Track and Field), a contemplative piece exploring collective memory and representation in sports.
Jane Alexander’s haunting sculpture Harbinger with Rainbow, which embodies the tension between dystopia and hope.
Additional featured artists include Frida Orupabo, Deborah Poynton, Steven Cohen, Pieter Hugo, and Wim Botha, among others. These works, sourced from artists’ studios, the gallery’s collection, and reconfigured private collections, illustrate the dynamic journey of art through time and space, underscoring the exhibition’s theme of interconnectedness.
When Works Meet is not merely a showcase of individual talents but a broader meditation on how art, when viewed collectively, gains new dimensions and interpretations. By facilitating interactions across genres, mediums, and periods, Stevenson Gallery fosters a deeper appreciation for the layered narratives embedded within these works. The exhibition amplifies the idea that art is not static; it evolves, interacts, and reshapes itself when placed in new contexts.
The exhibition also underscores the gallery’s commitment to supporting artists and collectors alike. By curating an environment where diverse works can engage in meaningful dialogue, Stevenson positions itself as a critical player in advancing contemporary art discourse. The intimate setting of its Cape Town gallery ensures that visitors can engage deeply with the works, unencumbered by the distractions often associated with larger exhibitions.
Frank Kilbourn, Chairman of Strauss & Co, attended the third instalment of the guided walkabouts series in the exhibition, his presence underscoring his dedication to promoting art accessibility and encouraging collectors to share their private collections with the public.
Stevenson Gallery’s Legacy and Vision
Since its founding in 2003, Stevenson Gallery has earned a reputation as a key player in the international contemporary art scene, with a particular focus on Africa and its diaspora. Its multifaceted approach, which includes championing emerging talent, hosting thought-provoking exhibitions, and cultivating global networks, has made it a vital hub for collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts. When Works Meet reflects the gallery’s vision of creating spaces where art transcends individual narratives to form a collective story that is both impactful and resonant. The exhibition not only highlights the diversity of artistic practices but also provides a platform for artists, collectors, and audiences to engage in meaningful and transformative experiences.
As the exhibition remains ongoing till February 8th, 2025, When Works Meet serves as a compelling invitation to anyone invested in the world of contemporary art. Whether you are an avid collector, an emerging artist, or simply a lover of art, Stevenson Gallery’s latest offering promises an enriching exploration of the infinite possibilities that arise when diverse works come together.
