Makeleni comes from a family of traditional
artists who have passed down their sculpting skills from generation to
generation. He began working with modern graphic and painting media in
1980, joining the Visual Art Group in 1990. His work reflects a fusion
of traditional skill and exposure to modern techniques. Makeleni describes
himself as a popular, traditional artist. He is motivated by the need
for development in his community and seeks to empower it with his vision
and skill.
Makeleni spends much time in the community and has taught part-time classes
at Community Arts Projects. He also taught at Zolani Centre. In November
1993, he ran a workshop on wire and pliers sculpture, the theme being
"Line as an Expressive and Design Element". He used a similar
theme in a toy-making workshop. In the same year he participated in a
workshop on "Structure, Form and Volume" using the papier-mâché
technique (a mixture of newspaper, starch and water supported by wire
frame armature). These constructions were painted, colour and line adding
expression to the formal elements. Simple, basic materials were used to
create the structures; tempera paints, paint brushes, tin cans, wire and
pliers.
Makeleni is a promising up-and-coming artist who is making his mark on
South African art. He has exhibited in various group exhibitions.
2012
Siyakubona, group exhibition at The Cape Gallery
2005
Participated in the group show ”Encompass” at the Cape Gallery
1993
V& A Waterfront Scottish Exhibitions
S.A.A.A.
Irma Stern Group Exhibition - Black Bride
1992
US Gallery - Sculptors of the Western Cape
Mayibuye Centre, UWC (VAG)
University of Cape Town
1991
Group Exhibition at Gallery International
Cape Town Manenburg Peoples' Centre
Zolani Centre, Nyanga
Centre for African Studies, UCT
1987
St Mary's Church - "Eye of the Artist"
1986
Primart, Claremont
Makeleni's work has featured in group shows in Oxford, England and in
America in 1992. His work has also been exhibited at the South African
National Gallery in Cape Town
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Artist: ISAAC MAKELENI
Title: Man and His Wife
Media: Wood sculpture
Size: 43 x 24 x 10 cm
ID: 3031
Price on request |