The late Archbishop Desmond Tutu was an advocate for ubuntu, the African concept of understanding that people are people through others.
“Africa is the birthplace of Ubuntu, the ancient spirituality of humanity uniting with our creator, others and nature. I invite you to remember the wonder of who you are, live to your highest potential and see the potential in others to celebrate the wonder of our diversity and most importantly to move and be who they are. This is our common heritage,” Tutu shared on the Desmond Tutu Peace Foundation channel.
And on the backbone of ubuntu, which encourages celebrating Africa’s vibrant and diverse nature, financial services company American Express, in partnership with Nedbank, launched the Amex ZA Graphic Arts Challenge.
It brings together graphic artists, illustrators and designers across the continent to explore the theme of “vibrant African markets – everyone is welcome” by creating fun and engaging artworks.
More than 500 artists took part in the initiative and a panel of adjudicators used a strong selection process to select five winners who each walked away with R100 000 and will have their work displayed on signage for American Express merchants in South Africa.
The five winners, Mark Modimola, Nene Mahlangu, Hlulani Trevor Hlongwane, Michelle Ewany Opani and Althea Botha, were announced at an inspiring evening showcasing young and upcoming creative designs, along with other participants, at the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank, Johannesburg .
The vice president of sub-Saharan Africa Business Development at American Express, James Wainaina, said he was inspired by the number of high-quality entries and the sheer amount of creativity.
“The winning entries are all based on the vibrant hospitality South Africa is known for globally and carry a welcoming message supported by American Express. To all the inspirational artists who participated in this competition, thank you for providing a visual reminder of the wonder of the country and its people. Thank you to inspire us to remain positive and optimistic as we continue to build our nation together,” Wainaina said.
Johannesburg-based multidisciplinary visual artist Mahlangu is the winning, self-titled artist Happy Shopping, it’s a celebration of black happiness and the vibrancy of a diverse nation.
In a statement about her artwork, Mahlangu said that her intention was to evoke a sense of dread when purchasing the item and receiving the package.
“As an avid shopper, the thought of going to the market makes me very happy. Through this acrylic painting, I channel the joy and excitement we feel when we buy things we love and need.
“I want to capture that special moment after the purchase, when you are waiting for the arrival of your goods. The feeling of anticipation and joy when you receive the news that your package has been delivered is indescribable,” he said.
Known for exploring themes of fashion, identity and spirituality through art, Mahlangu describes art as “inclusive and welcoming to all” showing the need for financial freedom, which he believes everyone should have.
“I believe that everyone should have access to this valuable exchange experience. I am inspired by the work of United Nations Women, which states that investing in women’s economic empowerment is an important step towards achieving gender equality, eradicating poverty, and driving growth an inclusive economy.
“In line with this, I chose to present the contemporary African woman as the main figure in my artwork, as a symbol of the joy of shopping that is available to all in this incredible market,” he said.
Mahlangu’s work includes designing two South African coins in 2019, one of which features the face of a black girl. He is the main visual artist for South African DJs
The Ibiza Black Coffee residency in 2022, organizes more than 20 works of art.
The Amex ZA Graphic Challenge exhibition will run until 14 April 2023 at Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank.