“The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love, and to be greater than our suffering…” – Ben Okri
The vibrant and diverse world of South African art is set to shine brightly on the evening of November 4th as Bongani Mamba, affectionately known as King Mamba, takes center stage to showcase his latest masterpiece, “Walking Number 7”. This South African artist, writer, songwriter, vocalist, and entrepreneur in the tourism sector is a true polymath, whose creativity knows no bounds.
Bongani Mamba’s journey through the world of art is nothing short of remarkable. As a multidisciplinary and ambidextrous fine artist, graphic designer (known for his transition from 2D to 3D drawings), painter, graffiti artist, and street art connoisseur, he has left an indelible mark on the creative landscape of South Africa. Not just a visual artist, Mamba is also a qualified historian, boasting an impressive 25 accreditations for storytelling and writing. His work is a testament to his deep understanding of culture, history, and the power of storytelling.
On November 4th, Bongani Mamba will be unveiling “Walking Number 7”, a collection of seven art pieces at the Terrace Luxury Apartments at Sandton Gate, Johannesburg. The “Walking Number 7” concept is a testament to Mamba’s unique and transcendent vision. It revolves around a fictional spiritual character who embodies the human anatomy and becomes the symbolic number 7 – a number traditionally associated with completeness. In Mamba’s interpretation, 7 represents not just completion but also a spiritual connection to the world.
In “Walking Number 7”, Mamba blends the internal, the spiritual, and the everyday life experiences that he has encountered in the vibrant and bustling city of Johannesburg. The result is a harmony between interstellar reality, urban legends, fictional futuristic soul, deep technology, village lifestyle, and painted music, all beautifully woven together in a captivating visual storytelling technique that is both abstract and colourful.
The “Walking Number 7” collection is a reflection of Mamba’s ability to bridge the gap between tradition and the contemporary, reality and fantasy, and the everyday and the extraordinary. Through his art, he invites viewers to explore the profound and transformative aspects of the human experience, all while embracing the vibrant energy of South Africa’s cultural melting pot.
The Terrace Luxury Apartments at Sandton Gate will be the perfect backdrop for this incredible event. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of captivating stories, colours and creativity that South African artists like Bongani Mamba bring to life through their masterpieces.
The event is more than just a solo showcase; it’s a celebration of South African art in all its forms. Over 25 local artists will have their works on display, providing a rich tapestry of styles, themes, mediums, and concepts for visitors to explore and appreciate.
One of the notable aspects of the event is its accessibility. Admission is absolutely free, ensuring that art lovers from all walks of life can partake in the beauty of local art. Bongani Mamba, in his role as a prolific artist and advocate for the South African art community, is making this celebration inclusive and open to all who appreciate the arts.
Moreover, for those who wish to channel their own creativity, there will be an exclusive “Paint and Sip” experience offered in one of the penthouses at The Terrace. Here, you can create your own masterpiece under the guidance of a skilled artist while sipping on your favourite beverage. It’s a unique opportunity to unlock your inner artist in the midst of a vibrant artistic community.
Mamba, the multifaceted artist and creative visionary, is set to take South African art to new heights with his “Walking Number 7” collection. As an artist, writer, historian and entrepreneur, he is a testament to the rich and diverse creative talents emerging from South Africa. Join them tomorrow on November 4th at The Terrace, Sandton Gate, for a journey into the depths of art and storytelling that only Mamba can provide. It’s a celebration of South African art in all its glory, and you won’t want to miss it.
Capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform and to love
For me, Mamba’s artistic works and his creative vision in “Walking Number 7 beautifully encapsulates the essence of the quotation above by Ben Okri: “The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love, and to be greater than our suffering.”
Mamba’s art is a testament to the human capacity for creation. In his “Walking Number 7” collection, he demonstrates the authentic power of artistic expression to create something beautiful, thought-provoking, and transformative. Through his art, Mamba creates a visual language that not only reflects his personal experiences but also captures the collective human experience, transcending individual narratives to resonate with a broader audience.
Mamba’s work also speaks to the idea of overcoming. His ability to blend multiple mediums, transition from 2D to 3D drawings, and explore various artistic styles and themes shows his resilience and determination to overcome artistic boundaries and challenges. Just as Okri suggests, we can overcome obstacles, and Mamba does so through his art.
Endurance is another theme that resonates with Mamba’s creations. The dedication and persistence required to produce a body of work as intricate and meaningful as “Walking Number 7” reveal the artist’s endurance. Mamba’s art embodies the idea that endurance can lead to the creation of something enduring, leaving a lasting impact on the world of art.
Transformation is a key element of both Okri’s quote and Mamba’s work. Mamba’s art is a testament to the transformative power of creativity. He takes everyday experiences and transforms them into profound and imaginative pieces that challenge conventional perspectives and evoke new emotions. In this sense, his work exemplifies the ability of art to catalyse change and transformation in the viewer’s perspective.
Moreover, Mamba’s art is a testament to the capacity for love. Love for one’s culture, love for storytelling, and love for the creative process all shine through his work. In “Walking Number 7,” Mamba infuses his art with a love for his South African roots and a deep connection to the human experience. His pieces are a celebration of love in its many forms.
Lastly, the concept of being greater than suffering is embedded in Mamba’s art. By drawing inspiration from the vibrant and challenging environment of Johannesburg, he showcases how creativity and art can rise above adversity. His work is a reminder that, as Okri states, we can be greater than our suffering through our creative endeavours.
In conclusion, Mamba’s “Walking Number 7” resonates strongly with l Okri’s quotation. It is a testament to the authentic human capacity for creation, overcoming challenges, enduring, transforming, loving, and ultimately rising above suffering through the power of art and creativity. His work is a beautiful reflection of the human spirit’s boundless potential and its ability to find beauty and meaning even in the face of adversity.
