Exploring the delicate balance between individuality and unity, Mpho Machate’s abstract works represent a striking fusion of form, colour, and texture, intricately woven with profound symbolism. His creations invite viewers to contemplate these dualities, resulting in a dynamic and thought-provoking visual experience. The upcoming exhibition, Individuation of the Whole, will run from 7 November 2024 to 26 January 2025 at Sisonke Gallery, which is located within the Cape Heritage Hotel on Bree Street in Cape Town.
Each piece in Machate’s exhibition is unique, blending inks, oils, and stencils. His works reflect keen observations of textured surfaces found in nature, but also observed patterns created by cracked walls and floors. Fine lines evoke imagery of roads and boundaries, while bold colour contrasts combine to form an unexpected yet harmonious visual experience.
Music plays a crucial role in Machate’s artistic process, with the melodies and rhythms of jazz providing an environment conducive to sharp focus and creative expression. Just as each instrumentalist contributes to a musical composition, the individual elements of Machate’s paintings work together to create a powerful collective impact. The exhibition encourages viewers to delve into the paradox of isolation and togetherness, prompting reflection on the interplay between these contrasting yet interconnected themes.
The artist’s lifelong creative journey began in childhood when he crafted toy cars, houses, and animals from clay. This passion evolved during his fine art studies at Tshwane University of Technology. Since then, he has participated in prestigious group exhibitions, including Johannesburg’s RMB Turbine Art Fair in Sandton and The Grand African Art Society at Vodaworld in Midrand.
Notably, in 2019, Machate was chosen to participate in the JP Morgan Abadali Art Programme, which led to his work being displayed in the international bank’s Johannesburg and Cape Town head offices. In 2022, two of Machate’s works, titled ‘Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost’ and ‘The Truth Within’, were acquired by the National Museum Bloemfontein after being featured in Art Bank of Africa, an initiative that purchases South African artworks to lease and sell to government departments, private companies and individuals. In 2023, Mpho was selected as one of four artists that made up the Nando’s Creative Exchange group exhibition and conceived the EP cover for Nando’s second Amipanio Album.
His latest Cape Town solo exhibition, which is self-curated and presented by HUB, explores philosophical ideas, artfully conveyed through captivating visual narratives. Displayed as a cohesive collection, with details and distinctions in each piece, the exhibition embodies its core themes, inviting guests on a journey through abstraction that encourages reflection on their own place within the intricate web of life.
Exhibition details
Where: Sisonke Gallery, Cape Heritage Hotel, 90 Bree Street, Cape Town
When: 7 November 2024 to 26 January 2025
Opening hours: Gallery open daily from 09h00 to 17h00
Follow the artist on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mmachate_art/
See https://www.instagram.com/house_union_block/ and https://houseunionblock.co.za/ for more information on HUB.
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Author: Pearl Chauke from Scout PR on behalf of HUB/SAT.
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