The KZNSA Gallery proudly present the first solo exhibition by Durban-based artist, Themba Shibase, a refreshing new presence on the local scene. Shibase is the curator of the Durban Institute of Technology Art Gallery and is currently completing his Masters degree at DIT. He has participated in numerous group exhibitions, and is an active member of the local artists’ community.

The exhibition comprises paintings on found board and paper which are contrasted with pristine drawings in clinical white box frames. Rough edges, torn bits and loose, drippy brush marks live comfortably with controlled and assured draughtsmanship in Shibase’s painted universe. The works interrogate new identities in an urban context and are based on the pull between traditional cultural manifestations and a contemporary world of technology and a free-market economy.

“It is an attempt to expose the conflict and ambiguity, maybe even the subtlety which is part and parcel of attempting to define and “African Authentic Identity” in this complex global village,” says Themba Shibase about his work. “My opinions about this are represented by images which are informed by my daily life experiences which include anything from newspaper articles, photos, even mundane object found on the city street.”

The exhibition runs from October 25 at 18h00 until November 13 in the KZNSA’s Main Gallery and is funded with a grant from the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund.