Nelson Makamo finally opens Paris exhibition
JOBURG – From 29 May – 27 July, Makamo will have his new body of work on show at the Loo & Lou Gallery in Paris.
Joburg-based visual artist, Nelson Makamo has finally opened his new exhibition in Paris, France. From 29 May – 27 July, Makamo will have his new body of work on show at the Loo & Lou Gallery in Paris.
Makamo has exhibited in group and solo exhibitions in South Africa, Europe, England and the US. He has shown in group shows alongside other South African artists including David Koloane, Colbert Mashile, Deborah Bell and William Kentridge.
Makamo’s work is strongly influenced by the candid innocents of children as he is particularly drawn to children in rural South Africa. He said he believes that they embody the peace and harmony we all strive for in life, the search for eternal joy lies in the child within us all, and we are just so consumed with worldly things that we forget the simplicity of life through a child’s perspective.
In order to portray his vision of society, Makamo is going through a process of observation that precedes his plastic work. This process, essential in his creation, allows him to immerse himself into the usual and the exceptional of the new South African generation. He has evolved his scope of experience so did his medium of expression, namely charcoal, acrylic, water colours, mono-types, silk screen and oil paintings.
He refrains from planning his pieces and opts rather for the canvas and days inspiration to lead him. Makamo’s enduring portraits have found a special place in collectors’ hearts, and speaks to something familiar that resides in all of us.
Makamo’s work forms part of a few collections such as those of fashion icon Giorgio Armani, musician Annie Lennox, Hanzehof Zutphense Kunst Collectis, DJ Black Coffee, Swizz Beatz, Oprah Winfrey, Ava Duvernay just to name a few.
Nelson currently works as a full time artist from his studio in the heart of the city of joburg. A space he deems to be the most sacred place in the world. His most recent achievement is one of his artwork gracing the special edition TIME magazine optimist issue cover, guest edited by acclaimed film director Ava Duvernay.
