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Tribute to Ngatane

Ngatane studied under Skotnes at the Polly Street Art Centre from 1952-1954, during which time he developed his unique method. What set Ngatane apart was his approach – he used abstract, geometric shapes and a wide spectrum of colour to create compositions that are both aesthetically appealing and emotive.
 
Through his art Ngatane portrayed the nitty-gritty of life in Soweto: emotions spanning from despair to hope; the soul of the township; its beggars, bicycles and barbershops; and the wind, snow and sun. While his work serves as a narrative of the hardship of living in Soweto, which was overcrowded and impoverished,

Ngatane died of tuberculosis in 1971 at almost 33 years of age, but his work remains important to an understanding of South African art and township life under apartheid.

A hardcover book on Ngatane, entitled A Setting Apart, edited by Rory Bester, will be launched at the opening. The exhibition is curated by Natalie Knight.

Running concurrently in the downstairs gallery will be Harmony, an exhibition of Natasha Christopher’s artworks focusing on Welkom, where she spent her formative years. Visit www.standardbankgallery.co.za  for details.