The William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG) proudly presents OUR WOVEN HERITAGE – A Heritage Month Exhibition curated by Chepape Makgato, celebrates South Africa’s Tapestry Legacy, an extraordinary exhibition celebrating South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry tradition. In honour of Heritage Month, this exhibition showcases a collection of intricate and evocative tapestry works by some of the nation’s most celebrated textile artists. The exhibition runs from 17 September to 18 November 2024 in the gallery’s Blue Boy wing.

Featured artists include:

Allina Ndebele, renowned for her storytelling through fibre, with works inspired by Zulu folklore and history.

– Jennifer Crooks, whose vibrant tapestries explore the intersections of nature and humanity.

– Dudu Xaba, a pioneer of textile art whose works weave together narratives of resilience and identity.

– Joseph Ndlovu, creator of the iconic Humanity tapestry that reflects the ethos of South Africa’s Bill of Rights.

– Keiskammahoek Project, a collective whose detailed pieces depict the lives and landscapes of the Eastern Cape.

– Mary Shabalala, whose tapestries highlight the rhythms of daily life in rural South Africa.

– Alumni of Rorke’s Drift Art Centre, a group of artists whose innovative textile works continue the legacy of this iconic institution.

-Zandile Ntobela, whose contemporary designs merge tradition with a bold modern aesthetic.

Through this curated selection, OUR WOVEN HERITAGE – A Heritage Month Exhibition Celebrating South Africa’s tapestry legacy  reflects the diversity, creativity, and cultural depth of South Africa’s tapestry artists. Each piece serves as a thread in the larger story of our nation’s artistic heritage, exploring themes of identity, community, and memory.

The exhibition is a testament to the power of textile art to preserve and share stories across generations. It honours the contribution of these artists in shaping and celebrating South Africa’s visual culture.