Kimathi Mafofo Ebullience.
Kimathi Mafofo’s stunning embroideries uplift the Black female in a joyous celebration of sisterhood and self-love. The South African born artist was at Kristin Hjellegjerde gallery, London. Visit: https://kristinhjellegjerde.com/artists/227-kimathi-mafafo/overview/
The exhibition showcases intricately crafted portraits of women surrounded by vibrant floral motifs and textures. These handcrafted pieces symbolize what the artist, Kimathi Mafafo, defines as a sense of ebullience – a state of joy and vitality intricately linked to feminine strength and freedom. Created in collaboration with a group of women skilled in weaving, these new works exhibited at the Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery celebrate sisterhood and self-affirmation.
Mafafo views her woven creations as part of an ongoing narrative, influenced by her personal journey and the evolving societal landscape. Her latest series reflects her observations of women reclaiming their autonomy and explores her own exploration of femininity as an artist, woman, and mother. Through her art, Mafafo navigates the complexities of raising her daughter in a changing world, challenging ingrained societal norms and embracing feminine empowerment.
Central to Mafafo’s artistic expression is the theme of interconnectedness, symbolized by recurring circular motifs representing the cyclical nature of life and the transmission of knowledge across generations. Her collaborative approach, involving women trained in embroidery, emphasizes individual expression within a collective narrative, resulting in visually intricate works that resonate with feminine experiences and dialogues.
The exhibition features a series of portraits depicting liberated women amidst a backdrop of natural elements, each evoking a sense of empowerment and sensuality. Through her art, Mafafo celebrates the intrinsic pleasure of self-discovery and self-acceptance, advocating for a paradigm shift towards embracing joy and fulfillment as fundamental human rights.
