Igxathu is the first solo exhibition of paintings by Lalelani Mbhele and is drawn from his latest artworks. "Igxathu" is translated as the first step that a child makes when they are attempting to walk and this title seemed fitting for this inaugural exhibition.

Lalelani is a Durban born painter, illustrator and muralist. Based in Inanda, he is a former student of the African Art Centre student and a past student of the BAT Centre's Artists In Action Residency Programme. He furthered his studies at the Durban Institute of Technology and he is currently involved in a number of public art projects with Terry Anne Stevenson from the Community Art Project.

He has also been working on several private commissions and mural projects. Lalelani is also a BAT Centre Resident Artist and has many of his works displayed in the BAT Centre studio.

“This is my first step to stand by myself and to show the world what appealed to me,” says Lalelani. “This exhibition is a reflection of a lifestyle that makes up my memory of my life. I have managed to accept and live the experience of my surroundings and have found beauty, love and freedom of expression through the canvas."

Igxathu runs in the Menzi Mcunu Gallery at the BAT Centre from December 2 to 29. For more information contact Njabulo Mtshali on 031 332 0451.