The BCI Gallery in Maputo presents a posthumous exhibition titled “Remembering Master Malangatana,” showcasing 25 works by renowned artist Malangatana Valente Ngwenya. The opening was attended by family, friends, and admirers, emphasizing the artist’s impact on Mozambican culture and identity. Key figures, including his son and a BCI administrator, spoke on the significance of preserving Malangatana’s artistic legacy.
The BCI Gallery in Maputo currently houses a posthumous exhibition titled “Remembering Master Malangatana,” featuring 25 works by celebrated Mozambican artist Malangatana Valente Ngwenya (1936-2011). This showcase honors the artist’s profound impact and innovation, reflecting his ability to portray Mozambique’s cultural essence on a global stage.
The opening ceremony attracted numerous attendees, including family, friends, fellow artists, and art enthusiasts. Notably, Mutxini Ngwenya, the son of Malangatana and head of the Malangatana Foundation, spoke about the power of art, stating, “Art has the power to tell stories, preserve memories and strengthen identities. Malangatana, with his vibrant expression, captured the soul of the Mozambican people, their struggles, hopes and dreams.”
Luís Aguiar, an administrator from Banco Comercial e de Investimentos (BCI), emphasized the importance of preserving Malangatana’s legacy through this exhibition. He remarked, “With his art, Malangatana represented and projected Mozambique in several galleries and museums around the world, and is seen as an icon of the nation. It is essential to continue to value this legacy, keeping alive the memory, impact and reach of his work.”
Malangatana, celebrated for his paintings and sculptures, is considered a key figure in Mozambique’s cultural history and a prominent icon of contemporary African art. He was born in Matalana and initially worked as a servant before being encouraged by influential figures to pursue his artistic talents.
Throughout his career, Malangatana excelled in various artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, and poetry. His first exhibition occurred in 1959, and he continued to participate in numerous international exhibitions following Mozambique’s independence in 1975. Beyond art, he held political positions and received numerous accolades for his cultural contributions.
In recognition of his work, Malangatana was awarded the Nachingwea medal for his contributions to Mozambican culture in 1995, and he was honored with titles such as Grand Officer of the Order of Prince Henry the Navigator and Artist for Peace by UNESCO. He also received a Doctor Honoris Causa from the University of Évora and the French government’s decoration of Commander of Arts and Letters in 2010.
The exhibition “Remembering Master Malangatana” serves not only as a tribute to the late artist’s legacy but also highlights his vital role in shaping Mozambican culture and identity. Through diverse artistic expressions and notable achievements, Malangatana continues to inspire many. This homage reinforces the importance of art in preserving cultural memory and promoting national pride, ensuring that his contributions remain vibrant in collective memory.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
