David Krut Projects showcases artist’s latest exhibition

The David Krut Project unveiled its latest exhibition titled Diamond Dust Apostrophes, by artist Pebofatso Mokoena, at The Blue House in Parkwood on July 19. The show draws on the artist’s recent residency in Oranjemund, Namibia, where the surrounding landscape, history, and soundscapes influenced his creative direction.

Known for his layered and contemplative work, Mokoena describes this exhibition as a continuation of the visual language he began developing in earlier shows. The title reflects both the complex mining history of Oranjemund and Johannesburg, as well as the fragmented, poetic gestures found within the work.

“The light, colour, and temperature affected me on such a physical level that they became a lens through which I processed the environment,” said Mokoena. While waiting for his oil paints to arrive during the residency, he began creating ink drawings on A4 sheets of paper. This limitation opened a new path in his creative process and helped shape the meditative tone of the exhibition.

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Sound also played a subtle but meaningful role. Mokoena collaborated with fellow resident Ericke Tjiueza, using music as a tool to understand the town better. They listened to the album Floating Points by Pharoah Sanders and the London Symphony Orchestra, which became a kind of soundtrack to their stay and a recurring influence on the work.

This exhibition marks a significant shift from his 2020 solo show: Internal Probes, which explored the chaos and contradictions of Johannesburg’s public transport system. While that work responded to dense urban environments, Diamond Dust Apostrophes embraces stillness, space, and reflection.

Curator Ame Bell said the curatorial team worked closely with the artist to ensure the layout supported the conceptual weight of the work. “We created a setting that allows viewers to slow down and engage with the layering and rhythm present in Pebofatso’s pieces.” Works were placed with intention, often at unexpected heights or along specific sightlines, to encourage alternative ways of seeing.

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Mokoena also credits the collaborative role of the David Krut Workshop and printmaker Sbongiseni Khulu in the technical and conceptual development of the exhibition. “They were a sounding board throughout the process,” he said. “This show reflects years of conversations and shared insights.”

Diamond Dust Apostrophes is a sensitive and deeply considered body of work that captures the emotional and environmental weight of a place through mark-making and thoughtful composition. It invites audiences to not only look, but to feel, listen, and reflect.

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