Abantu, threads that bind us

UJ Exhibition review, Saleemah S

Exhibition title: Abantu, threads that bind us
Exhibition date: 27 February to 28 March 2025
Artist/s: Khanya Mthetwa
I’d like to begin my review with a glowing appreciation for the setup. The contrast of the black painted walls and bright coloured bases on the plinths were a good way to showcase Mthetwa’s beautiful work.
This exhibition is an exploration of heritage within South Africa. South Africa is home to many different cultures, religions and languages that pose unique ancestry to each individual. I, myself, have a mixed heritage that is difficult to connect with given the discrimination I faced growing up.
The exhibition has two levels, one displaying the artworks, accessories and fashion items and the lower level which features archival material from the WITS art museum, highlighting prominent leaders in south African heritage. On the lower level there is also a video art piece focusing on rhythm. Dance is a prominent part of various South African cultures. Including it in a fashion and mixed/multimedia exhibition was very impactful as it stood out and brought a fresh contemporary feel to the exhibition.
Mthetwa proudly adorns herself in handmade jewellery and outfits, which are all displayed at the FADA gallery. However, Mthetwa becomes the sole model in a set of powerful portraits. All the photographs feature the artist posing in different ways while wearing different outfits and jewellery. She is placed against a solid black background and the exposure of the photo’s seem to darken her skin tone. These works are similar to that of Zanele Muholi, who uses these strong exposures to highlight and empower herself as a black woman. Both these artists’ works celebrate and reclaim power.
My only critique lies in the exclusion of other cultures such as Coloured, Indian or Afrikaans. As an Indian woman, I subjectively find my community under-represented within the narrative of South African heritage. Swati and Basotho culture belong to countries that exist within South African borders but are completely independent and separate to South Africa, yet they were represented while others were not. I will however acknowledge that it would be difficult to include every culture that existed within the country. The artist merely chose a focus, in my opinion that is indigenous black cultures.
Acknowledgement of the community was also a very positive point for me. The exhibition featured a short slideshow where Mthetwa named and gave background on those who helped make the exhibition happen. Namely, Neo Komane, Ramakgati Jimmy Mokagane, Andrea Joubert, Tumelo Mashego, Khutso Coma, Ntokozo Mngoma, Spelele Vilakazi, Advocate Nhkavutelo Khosa, Betty Meyambo, Minenhle Nduze, Sipho Lucas Mbatha, Noxolo Khumalo and Nombulelo Ditaunyane.

All photographs were taken by Saleemah S, 2025 however rightful credit goes to Khanya Mthetwa and the relevant photographers who were part of the exhibiton.