The William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG) is delighted to announce that Nkululeko Mahlangu has been selected as the recipient artist for the 2025 “If Walls Could Talk” program, which is being conducted in collaboration with the MTN Foundation. Mahlangu’s application was the most successful among the numerous applications submitted for this year’s open call, which was launched early February and concluded late February.

This year’s theme was centred around literacy and education. This year’s campaign project highlights the emphasis and increases awareness on the importance of literacy in our society. The project with its public art accessibility, aims to inspire and educate the community, emphasizing the transformative power of reading and education with the slogan: “Read, Think and Succeed.” Mahlangu’s art has gone beyond gallery walls, transforming Galeshewe open Air Arena walls found in Hulana street, Galeshewe in Kimberley Northern Cape.

Nkululeko Mahlangu lives and works in Rockville, Soweto. His love for art began at an early age and later developed under the guidance of the late Mr. Keith Moletsane. He pursued his studies in visual art and completed his studies up to N6 in 2004. His talent and perseverance earned him a reputation as a renowned visual artist, muralist, graffiti artist, and multimedia land artist.

Mahlangu’s impact extends beyond his individual artistry. He is committed to preserving South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. He is a founding member of Post ’77 and The Genesis Art Collective and has been instrumental in the development of numerous art initiatives that are centred around the youth of Soweto.

His paintings have been featured in numerous group exhibitions, and his murals and graffiti artworks are located in a variety of locations throughout Soweto.

The 2025 theme of If Walls Could Talk was inspired by the literacy crisis that is devouring our communities. South Africa is dealing with a significant literacy crisis. According to a recent report, 81% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language. This artwork encourages the community to provide youngsters with access to literacy resources.

Previous recipients for the If Walls Could Talk program includes the following: Omolemo Rammile (2023), Ras Silas Motse (2024), with the Northern Cape artist, Janine Titus team, when speaking to the WHAG team, he said “It is an honour to work with William Humpherys Art Gallery. I feel honoured being chosen to do this mural.”

The If Walls Could Talk is a community arts and cultural development initiative of the WHAG that wishes to invest in the promotion of creative interventions in public spaces in the Northern Cape.

For more information on Nkululeko Mahlangu’s work, please contact Malikah at: Malikah@whag.co.za

Text by Kutlwano Kgaoganyeng