Exhibition Commemorating Malangatana Opens in Maputo
The BCI Gallery in Maputo has opened an exhibition titled “Remembering Master Malangatana”, showcasing 25 works by renowned artist Malangatana Valente Ngwenya. The event honors his contributions to Mozambique’s cultural identity and aims to preserve his artistic legacy. Attendees included family and art enthusiasts, with comments highlighting his influence on Mozambican art and storytelling through his vibrant expressions.
A new exhibition titled “Remembering Master Malangatana” has recently opened at the BCI Gallery in Maputo, featuring twenty-five works of the late Mozambican artist Malangatana Valente Ngwenya, who passed away in 2011. This exhibition serves as a posthumous tribute to Malangatana, widely regarded as one of Mozambique’s most significant artistic figures, showcasing his innovative contributions that transcended national boundaries.
The opening event attracted a diverse audience consisting of family, friends, and art enthusiasts, including Mutxini Ngwenya, the artist’s son and head of the Malangatana Foundation. He remarked on the power of art to convey stories and memories, emphasizing how Malangatana’s vibrant expression encapsulated the essence of the Mozambican people’s experiences, aspirations, and struggles.
The collection presented belongs to the Banco Comercial e de Investimentos (BCI), with Administrator Luís Aguiar highlighting the importance of preserving Malangatana’s legacy. He noted that through his art, Malangatana showcased Mozambique on global platforms, establishing himself as a national icon. Aguiar underscored the necessity of upholding the memory and impact of Malangatana’s work for future generations.
Malangatana was a celebrated visual artist who played a pivotal role in Mozambique’s cultural landscape. Born in the Matalana region of Marracuene district, he was encouraged to pursue art by biologist Augusto Cabral and architect Pancho Miranda Guedes. His multifaceted talents included painting, sculpture, poetry, and performance arts.
His debut exhibition occurred in 1959 during the Salon de Artes Plásticas in Lourenço Marques, now Maputo, with numerous exhibitions following post-independence in 1975. Malangatana served in political roles, including as a deputy in the Maputo Municipal Assembly.
Recognizing his contributions, he received various honors, such as the Nachingwea medal in 1995, the title of “Artist for Peace” from UNESCO in 1997, and a Doctor Honoris Causa from the University of Évora in 2010. His accolades also include the decoration of “Commander of Arts and Letters” from the French government.
The exhibition at the BCI Gallery not only commemorates Malangatana’s remarkable artistic legacy but also serves as a reminder of the impact of his work on Mozambique’s identity and place in the world. His exceptional talent and diverse contributions continue to inspire future generations of artists. The ongoing recognition of his achievements illustrates the significance of preserving cultural heritage and the vital role of art in society.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
