The Inner City Views theme is derived from the 1971 iconic Marvin Gaye soul classic ‘Inner City Blues (Makes Me Wanna Holler)’ that depicts the ghettos and America’s bleak inner-city conditions.
The Asisebenze artists bring their own unique flavour to this theme by drawing on their experiences and interpretations of life in the inner city.
Works on display include oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, charcoal and pastels on paper, print on paper and mixed media works as well as repurposed found objects. All the works touch on themes relating to the inner city of Johannesburg, including safety and security, identity, movement in the city, and cultural identifiers.
TIME, CARE AND PATIENCE
‘Creating a work of art as something unique and of value that lasts for generations to come, requires time, care and patience. We at Sanlam Private Wealth have the same mindset when we build and preserve wealth for our clients, carefully custom-crafting multi-faceted portfolios tailored to each client’s personal goals and ambitions,’ says Theesan Moodley, CEO of Sanlam Private Wealth.
‘It therefore gives us great pleasure to partner with the Asisebenze Art Atelier to bring you Inner City Views, a one-of-a-kind art exhibition which provides a platform for emergent and middle-tier African artists, contributing to the growth and development of the African art scene.’
Asisebenze Art Atelier is home to more than two dozen artists who operate as a collective that aims to grow their talents and influence. Backed by a professional management team of art curators and industry insiders, artists are assured of housing, studios, materials and professional guidance.
Located at 28 Plein Street in Johannesburg, this iconic art deco building has been transformed into multiple artists’ studios that brim with a vibrant and creative energy. Established in early 2022, Asisebenze has wasted no time in participating in top events such as the Cape Town Art Fair and Turbine Art Fair, as well as hosting multiple exhibitions.
Inner City Views has been co-curated by award-winning visual artist, curator and arts writer Nolan Stevens and long-standing art dealer Choni Gavin.
SUSTAINABLE ARTS ECOSYSTEM
Mendel Medalie, co-CEO of Asisebenze, says: ‘We’re extremely excited about this partnership with Sanlam Private Wealth as it’s an important stepping stone to achieving our dream of creating a sustainable arts ecosystem. We want to create opportunities for artists, but also for art lovers to include uniquely South African art in their collections.’
The exhibition is not open to the public, although private and group viewings can be arranged by contacting Choni Gavin (083 750 9083 / choni@asisebenze.com) or Nolan Stevens (074 823 5550 / nolan@asisebenze.com).
