Gallery 2 showcases Themba Khumalo’s works

The streets of Parkwood were filled with art enthusiasts for the first solo exhibition of Themba Khumalo’s works recently. Gallery 2 hosted the opening and gave the community a chance to meet Khumalo.

“His work shows a lot of promise. He has grown as an artist and is showing a lot of maturity, which is also translating into his work,” commented Glynis Blomkamp, Gallery 2 owner.

Khumalo was born in 1987 and grew up in Soweto. He graduated in printmaking at Artist Proof Studio where he obtained a design foundation certificate and then went on to do a professional printmaking development course under the sponsorship of Pinpoint One, also at Artist Proof Studio, in 2009. He has been involved in a number of group exhibitions, commissions and special projects, such as a mural in the Eastern Cape and Isolate del Cinema Festival in Rome, Italy.

“My work talks about issues and challenges one faces in the big city. I also acknowledge the foundation and direction that have been given to me from home. I am who I am because of my upbringing. I am so excited to have my first solo exhibition, it is an honour,” said Khumalo.

He added that he makes use of techniques such as etching, drypoint and monoprint because he can achieve strong, intense lines, different effects and textures. He also gets unexpected false bits, which represent the imitation of life – the fact you can’t predict what’s going to happen tomorrow.

Gert Louw, an art lover said, “This was a splendid opening, his work is great and very good to look at in all aspects.”

Another pleased art lover was Bongani Njado, “Tonight is great, the people and the exhibition are time well spent.”

The exhibition will end on 2 April.

Details: Gallery 2, 011 447 0155.