Art in Motion: Breathing Life into Johannesburg’s Heart
Published 30 October 2025 in Blog
by Nomonde Kananda
On the 18th and 20th of September 2025, Asisebenze Art Gallery opened its doors at 34 Loveday Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg, with an unforgettable two-part celebration — a private VIP evening followed by a grand public unveiling.
The debut exhibition, aptly titled Art in Motion, captured everything the gallery stands for: movement, connection, and the living spirit of art in the city.
Featuring artists from Asisebenze Art Atelier, the show brought together a dynamic range of works — from striking portraiture and abstract compositions to sculptural forms, inventive collages made with Johannesburg’s iconic city posters, and reimagined pieces crafted from plastic. Each work carried a pulse, echoing the rhythm of creativity that animates both artist and audience.
Across both events, the energy was tangible. Guests didn’t simply view the art — they experienced it. Conversations flowed easily as people lounged on couches, coffee in hand, exchanging reflections on how the works resonated with their own stories. The space buzzed with life — an embodiment of Asisebenze`s ethos that art, like the city itself, is never still.
The VIP opening featured keynote addresses by renowned arts writer Ashraf Jamal and Mendel Medalie, owner of Redcon Properties, the company behind Asisebenze Art Gallery and Asisebenze Art Atelier.
Jamal’s words were especially moving. He spoke about Africa’s great gift to the world — its spirit and humanity. While Africa may not lead in industrial power, he reminded guests that the continent leads in something far more profound: soul. That spirit, he said, is visible in the art created across Africa and in the passion of its artists.
Medalie reflected on the resilience and brilliance of South African artists who continue to make their mark globally. He described Johannesburg — often misunderstood — as a city very much alive, and reminded the audience that art has the power to reveal its beating heart.
The public opening two days later carried that same vitality, enriched by a spellbinding performance of Ithogo Experience by Shaman Chant and Bonginkosi Nyamakazi on the djembe. Their fusion of isiXhosa poetry and rhythm created a deeply spiritual atmosphere that drew listeners into a shared space of emotion and reflection.
Next door, Troy’s Café added to the sense of community. Guests spilled onto the pavement, coffee and conversation mingling with the hum of the city — a living image of what Asisebenze stands for: art, connection, and culture in motion.
