Wits Art Museum unveils Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective
The retrospective exhibition opens at the Wits Art Museum on November 20 and runs until February 28, 2025, showcasing, among others, Mahlangu's iconic BMW 525i art car.
Johannesburg welcomed a milestone moment in the arts on November 18, as the Wits Art Museum (WAM) hosted a media briefing ahead of the public opening of Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective. This long-awaited exhibition will open its doors on November 20, offering a profound tribute to Dr Esther Mahlangu, one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists.
The retrospective spans over five decades of Mahlangu’s extraordinary career, tracing her journey from a small village in Mpumalanga to global recognition as a pioneer of Ndebele art. Known for her bold, geometric patterns and vibrant colours, Mahlangu’s work has redefined African art, blending tradition with innovation. The exhibition not only showcases her artistic mastery but also her influence as a cultural matriarch whose legacy continues to inspire younger generations.
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A key highlight of the exhibition is the return of Mahlangu’s iconic BMW 525i art car, a historic piece that made her the first African and female artist to feature in the prestigious BMW Art Car Collection in 1991. After more than three decades, the masterpiece is back in Gauteng, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness a work that bridges the worlds of art, culture, and automotive design.
Curator Nontobeko Ntombela described Mahlangu as a symbol of resilience and cultural pride. “Her artistry is a testament to the power of creativity to transcend boundaries and place Africa at the centre of the global art scene,” she said. Echoing this sentiment, BMW Group South Africa’s Thilosh Moodally praised the partnership, saying it celebrates Mahlangu’s brilliance while fostering innovation and cultural exchange.
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Following its successful debut at the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town, this retrospective arrives in Johannesburg as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of art. Supported by BMW Group South Africa, the National Arts Council, and WAM, it invites audiences to celebrate the life and legacy of a true South African treasure. From November 20, WAM becomes home to an unmissable celebration of creativity and culture, honouring the indelible mark Dr Esther Mahlangu has left on the world.
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