Esther Mahlangu

A captivating exploration of the life and work of the iconic South African artist Esther Mahlangu, one of the great innovators of Pan-African Contemporary Art. Esther Mahlangu (b. 1935) is globally acclaimed for her bright and bold abstract paintings that are rooted in South African Ndbele art. She was a disruptor from an early age, becoming the first person to reimagine her visual heritage, historically used for decorating houses, on painting media such as canvas. Mahlangu is one of the most influential artists of Pan-African Contemporary Art. Esther Mahlangu: A Life in Colour celebrates Mahlangu’s remarkable journey as a pioneer and innovator of contemporary African art, whose vibrant and distinctive paintings have captured the hearts of many worldwide. Through a series of interviews with Mahlangu conducted by Thomas Girst, Azu Nwagbogu and Hans Ulrich Obrist, readers will gain insight into her creative process, inspiration, and the cultural significance of her work – in the artist’s own words. With a preface by Nontobeko Ntombela, the curator of Mahlangu’s major 2024 travelling retrospective, this book presents stunning visuals and engaging narratives, offering an inspiring experience to the reader.

'Esther Mahlangu's art is a symphony of colors and traditions, weaving together a narrative that transcends borders and generations. Her upcoming book is a treasure trove, unlocking the secrets of her creative process and inviting readers into her rich cultural tapestry. I'm beyond excited for more people to delve into Esther's world, where each brushstroke is a testament to her unparalleled talent and the power of art to unite us all' - John Legend, 'Esther Mahlangu’s work is a vibrant contemporary testimony to the infinite spectrum of African geometric abstraction that stems from the wealth of traditional aesthetics of her Ndebele community' - Koyo Kouoh, Executive Director and Chief Curator, Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA), 'Esther Mahlangu is an inspiration … her valuable contribution to contemporary art has not gone unnoticed' - Trevor Noah, comedian and author, 'Esther Mahlangu isn't just a contemporary artist; she's a powerhouse. Her art shares her culture with the world. Looking at her paintings is like listening to great music - it's super inspiring and shows true artistry' - Mike Dean, record producer and songwriter, 'Esther Mahlangu is one of the greatest living artists on the planet. Her work is the epitome of the convergence of the vibrancy of African modern and contemporary art traditions and western modernism, marrying the vernacular art of the pre-colonial with the ever dynamic momentary of the post-colonial. Like the greatest artworks of humanity, each viewing offers a new lesson in reading and seeing art' - Franklin Sirmans, Director, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Thomas Girst has been the global Head of Cultural Engagement at the BMW Group since 2003. He is the author of several books, including The Duchamp Dictionary, also published by Thames & Hudson. Azu Nwagbogu is the Founder and Director of the African Artists’ Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting African art and artists, and is also the Founder of the annual LagosPhoto Festival. Hans Ulrich Obrist is the Artistic Director of the Serpentine Galleries, London, a widely published author and internationally renowned curator.

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