Southern Guild is delighted to present ‘Grace in Grand-Bassam,’ an extraordinary solo exhibition by the talented emerging artist Terence Maluleke. This remarkable collection is a direct reflection of Maluleke’s profound experience during his month-long residency at La Fourchette de Rōze, nestled in the coastal town on the outskirts of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Acrylic on canvas
129 × 125 × 4 cm. Image courtesy of Artsy.
Maluleke’s art serves as a vibrant language to communicate the vivacity of Côte d’Ivoire. The large-scale paintings within the exhibition intricately capture the human body’s fluidity and the city’s pulsating energy. The exhibition, aptly titled ‘Grace in Grand Bassam,’ skillfully portrays the angular contortions of dancing figures and the synchronized movements of soccer players. A recurring motif is the ubiquitous plastic jelly sandal, or “lêkê,” symbolizing the egalitarian fabric of community life.
These artworks, characterized by disruptive elements such as floating calla lilies and dancing stars, transcend traditional boundaries. They capture the essence of communal life, celebrating the diversity of pan-African Black identities.
Biography of Terence Maluleke:
Terence Maluleke, born in 1995 in Soweto, emerged as a visual developer for Disney Animation Studios, Sony Pictures Animation, Netflix, and Triggerfish. He contributed to iconic projects, honing his skills and understanding of visual storytelling. From the streets of Soweto to international animation studios, Maluleke’s experiences enrich his creations.
His artistic vision embraces the diversity of Black identities, capturing the complexity of shared experiences within the African diaspora. Drawing inspiration from his township roots, Maluleke creates stylized portraits. He also creates still-life compositions that delve into the nuances of contemporary Black experience.
Acrylic on canvas
140 × 250 × 4 cm. Image courtesy of Artsy
‘Grace in Grand-Bassam’ stands as a testament to Maluleke’s ability to encapsulate the intricacies of life, community, and identity. Don’t miss this exceptional exhibition, from October 26 to November 16, 2023, offering a profound exploration of human connection and the vibrant spirit of Côte d’Ivoire.
