The Blue Caterpillar Art Gallery at Butterflies for Africa in Pietermaritzburg is hosting an exhibition of woodcut prints by Ezequiel Mabote and Malibongwe Shangase from December 1. This exhibition emphasises the vibrant colours of rural African village life as well as the exciting world of township jazz.

Ezequiel studied fine art at the Nucleo de Arte in Maputo where he developed his skills in woodcut printing. The high degree of quality and professionalism in his work is testament to his talent and dedication to art.

He says: “My work reflects my childhood memories. These stories emanate from the stories that my grandparents used to tell me as a child. To me this is the life that I cherish most when doing my work. It is important from my point of view to keep these memories alive. I also enjoy drawing elongated figures because that is how I had pictured them in my mind as a child.”

Ezequiel has recently returned from the USA where he held several exhibitions in New York and Chicago. He has also exhibited in Norway and in several South African galleries.

Malibongwe Shangase is a relatively newcomer who has been tutored by Ezequiel but has developed his own distinct style and is making an exciting contribution to this art form.

The exhibition runs from December 1 to January 15. More information from Jeni on 033 3871356 or visit www.butterflies.co.za