South African Art Scene Sees Transformative Exhibitions in July 2014

In July 2014, South Africa's art scene witnessed significant exhibitions by emerging and established artists. Guy Tillim presented 'Joburg: Points of View' at Stevenson Gallery in Johannesburg, shifting his focus to the city's structural development, though Michael Smith questioned if it avoided pressing national issues. Gerald Machona debuted his first solo show at Goodman Gallery in Johannesburg, exploring migration and displacement through afrofuturism with a critical edge noted by Percy Mabandu. Rowan Smith exhibited 'No Everything' at Whatiftheworld in Cape Town, reflecting on colonial implications after studying in the US. Mohau Modisakeng showcased the large-scale 'Ditaola' at Brundyn + in Cape Town, addressing traditional African beliefs and contemporary black South African experiences. Peter Eastman experimented with abstraction at SMAC Gallery in Cape Town, with Tim Liebbrandt highlighting the dense brushwork and questioning its focus on form. These exhibitions highlighted evolving artistic practices amid changing cultural and environmental contexts, including unusual snowfall in Cape Town.