Moshekwa Langa at the Goodman Gallery
by Kresta Tyler Johnson
In Moshekwa Langa's second show at the Goodman Gallery, 'Backlash Blues', the space has been converted into a celebration of the versatility of one of South Africa's most successful young artists. Based in Amsterdam, but frequently returning to South Africa, Langa continues to investigate, reconfigure and challenge notions of identity, self and the nomadic life he has chosen to lead.
Upon entering the gallery, I was met by the Word Tower, a series of mixed media pieces that have garnered so much acclaim for Langa. Involuntarily though, my eye was drawn to one of the new series of Untitled works hanging next to the entrance. These works are methodically draped with thin strings, evoking both an effect of impasto and spin art. A heavy shellac gives an overall luminescence to the work and the only congruously identifying factor is Langa's intricate use of linearity.
Appreciating the humour, cynicism, and questioning in the text of Langa's Word Towers or Index drawings, I stumbled upon the side corridor, painted a deep black, and installed with three shocking yellow string paintings, which literally leapt from the wall. I found myself intrigued, but uncertain of this new venture by Langa.
Around the corner and to the centre of the gallery was a homage to Langa's multiple recent explorations. Brightly coloured, horizontal landscape paintings were punctuated by string paintings of varying background hues and a single map-like piece, in which names are connected by a network of lines and landmasses are formed of green glitter.
The space is anchored through the back wall with iconic Word Towers. The final surprise is revealed in the Jan Smuts room where Langa's most recent work, a series of 10 photolithographs entitled Backlash Blues, dominate the space. No longer confined to the equitable paper size allocated all other pieces in the show, these photolithographs reappropriate human figures and forms in a haunting and ethereal manner.
The photolithographs are comprised of manipulated self-portraits, attenuated couples and rugby players, juxtaposed with famous authors' names etched in the space around the scene. Interpretations will no doubt be varied and unique.
The whole exhibition is at once jolting, yet enjoyable. Langa proves once again that he will not be confined to a particular style but will continue to develop and exceed expectations, keeping viewers on their toes.
The string paintings are a mixed bag, offering: some work and some don't. Nonetheless, the gallery has been given to Langa and he has taken full advantage of making the space his own. When you enter, you are in his world and his mind; you are obliged to consider things from his perspective and regardless of what you think, your opinion will only become clear once you leave the space. The show, and this glimpse into the mind of a complex and challenging artist, is not to be missed.
Closes: February 12
Goodman Gallery
163 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkwood
Tel: (011) 788 1113
Fax: (011) 788 9887
Email: goodman@iafrica.com
Hours: Tues - Fri 9.30am - 5.30pm, Sat 9.30am - 4pm
