Artist’s ‘Matriarchs’ exhibition was made using coffee capsules

Honouring women while conserving the environment is artist Pam Friedman, whose exhibition Matriarchs opened on July 31 in Rosebank.

The solo exhibition in collaboration with Nespresso, celebrates eight women whose courage, compassion and conviction shaped the course of history across continents and centuries.
The creative hub that houses Friedman’s pieces on Jan Smuts Road is filled with approximately 30 000 Nespresso capsules.

Friedman explained that how she understood being a heroine was not about perfection but perseverance and continuously rising like a phoenix.

Also read: African media takes stand against climate disinformation at the Goethe-Institut

“The room is filled with capsules that are filled with stories, survival, beauty and strength. I also honour our African heroines, including Queen Nandi, whose protection birthed a legacy.”

The artist added that coffee was not only a drink, but a ritual of rising that awakened us and reminded us that transformation was rich, slow-brewed and bold like the heroines she paid tribute to through her pieces.

“I didn’t make art; I performed a resurrection. I took what the world throws away and reimagined the waste into portraits of power.”

Nespresso South Africa’s brand team member, Keabetswe Legodi, said collaborating with Friedman was a no-brainer.

Also read: Youth leaders and law enforcement join forces in inspiring Paterson Park event

“Nespresso is rooted in the upliftment of women and communities. When we saw Pam’s work, it aligned with the brand.”

Legodi noted that the artist’s work stood out because it used capsules, which were upcycled to be part of the pieces, she created that represent powerful women in our society.

The exhibition opened in celebration of the start of Women’s Month, honouring the legacy and ongoing impact of women who have led with strength and purpose.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!