IN PHOTOS: Majak Bredell explores interconnectedness in exhibition at White River Gallery
Visit and explore Majak Bredell’s newest exhibition, ‘Levels & Layers’, at the White River Gallery.
The exhibition, “Levels & Layers”, by artist Majak Bredell debuted at the White River Gallery on April 20.
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Bredell, who has previously showcased her works at the gallery four times, including “Roll Call” in 2013, “Alter Images” in 2015, “Codex Magdalene+” in 2017 and “Dialogues & Analogies” in 2023, describes her recent works as exploring interconnectedness.
Divided into two parts, “Dialogues & Analogies” and “Levels & Layers”, Bredell aims to intertwine an understanding of the animate Earth into multiple layers of interconnectedness between humanity and the more-than-human world. She delves into the connections between elements of the natural world, religion, mythology and lore, suggesting that our affinity with the natural world has always existed, but may have been overlooked.
Bredell states that this body of work is ongoing and will continue to engage her indefinitely. She uses the metaphor of the nude figure as a symbol for humanity and the Earth, exploring the relationship and interconnectedness between the two. By portraying the nude body as representative of the animate Earth, Bredell seeks to challenge the traditional notion of looking upward for the sacred and instead encourages a gaze earthward, honouring the body of the Earth as sacred.
Through her work, Bredell aims to honour and celebrate both the human body and the body of the Earth, emphasising the interconnectedness between humanity and the more-than-human world. These works also reflect an ecofeminist understanding of the planet as a living organism, prompting viewers to consider the consequences of their actions on the Earth.
The opening of the exhibition was well received, with a strong turnout from the artist community and locals, said gallery manager Casandra Jacobs. An artist walkabout session with Bredell is scheduled for May 4, followed by a closing ceremony on June 2, both at the White River Gallery. For more information or to request an exhibition catalogue, contact Dana MacFarlane on 082 784 6695 or dana@whiterivergallery.co.za, or Jacobs at casandra@whiterivergallery.co.za.
