Dr Esther Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car Takes to Wits Art Museum in Joburg

Dr Esther Mahlangu’s acclaimed retrospective exhibition, “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting,” is captivating Johannesburg audiences at the Wits Art Museum (WAM). This landmark exhibition, supported by BMW Group South Africa, WAM, and the National Arts Council, is now open to the public.

Dr Esther

Image: BMW

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Esther Mahlangu, a name synonymous with vibrant colours and bold patterns, is celebrated in a retrospective exhibition that traces her remarkable journey from a small village in Mpumalanga to international acclaim. The exhibition, curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, offers a comprehensive look at her artistic practice, showcasing a collection of archival materials spanning five decades.

One of the most captivating aspects of the exhibition is the iconic BMW 525i Art Car, a testament to the fusion of art and automotive design. Created in 1991, this masterpiece marked a historic moment as Mahlangu became the first woman and African artist to be included in the prestigious BMW Art Car Collection. Its return to South Africa after over three decades provides a unique opportunity for local audiences to witness this extraordinary vehicle.

Dr Esther

Image: BMW

“Dr. Mahlangu’s extraordinary legacy is a testament to her pioneering spirit,” says Thilosh Moodally, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at BMW Group South Africa. “Our longstanding relationship with her, culminating in the return of the BMW 525i Art Car, is a celebration of her artistic brilliance and our joint effort to push the boundaries of creativity.”

Beyond the Art Car, the exhibition delves into Mahlangu’s broader artistic output, showcasing her intricate Ndebele beadwork and vibrant paintings. Her work has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her recognition as one of the most influential artists of her time.

Related: Esther Mahlangu Earns National Award for Iconic Collaborations with BMW

“Dr. Mahlangu is a living symbol of triumph over adversity,” says exhibition curator Nontobeko Ntombela. “Her warm personality and ability to inspire creativity have established her as a matriarch and mentor in contemporary art.” The exhibition is not only a celebration of Mahlangu’s artistic achievements but also a recognition of her significant contributions to South African culture. It highlights her ability to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, infusing her work with a sense of cultural identity and contemporary relevance.

Image: BMW

As Craig Mark, Director of The Melrose Gallery, notes, “Few South African artists have had the chance to present a retrospective of this scale. We hope this exhibition can pave the way for a global tour, creating opportunities for other South African artists to access these long-restricted museum spaces.”

‘Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective’ is currently on exhibition at WAM until the 17th of April 2025. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is free.

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The post Dr Esther Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car Takes to Wits Art Museum in Joburg appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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