Black canvas Sip 'n Paint challenges art lovers
Published 22 October 2024 in News
On Sunday, 20 October, art enthusiasts gathered at the Asisebenze Art Atelier gallery for an immersive Sip 'n Paint experience, uniquely curated as part of the Ubomi Deconstructed exhibition.
The highlight? Each participant was invited to mimic featured artist Siphamandla Ex’s technique used in this show of painting onto a black canvas. This approach, they discovered, required an entirely new perspective and set of skills.
Led by the artist himself, the session challenged attendees to rethink traditional colour application and composition, simulating the reverse visual effect he often uses in his work.
The day kicked off with an artist-led gallery walkabout, offering insights into Siphamandla's art techniques and inspirations.
Attendees were able to engage in a short Q&A session with the artist and exhibition curator, bringing deeper understanding and personal context to the works on display.
His Ubomi exhibition draws on Siphamandla’s powerful vision of reclaiming Black identity. His work uses black canvases as both a physical backdrop and a symbolic foundation, challenging stereotypes while celebrating a positive, complex portrayal of Black life.
Through vibrant, large-scale paintings, he brings forward strong female figures and lush, bright botanicals, inviting viewers to see Black identity and creativity through a lens of resilience and vibrancy.
Once the main event began, guests sipped wine, enjoyed snacks, and soaked in a vibrant atmosphere with live music and poetry setting the tone.
Painting on black canvases proved a unique challenge for most participants—requiring a careful rethinking of contrast, shadows, and light. Despite the initial struggle, participants found the process freeing, resulting in captivating pieces that mirrored the raw essence of Siphamandla’s style.
As the day came to a close around half past five, guests left not only with their self-made artworks but also with a newfound confidence and appreciation for stepping outside their artistic comfort zones.
The Ubomi Deconstructed exhibition will be open until the end of October 2024.
If you found this art exeperience interesting, then you you won’t want to miss out on our last public event of the year. Asisebenze Open Studios 2024 is being held on Sunday 3 November from 10am – 5pm.
Join us as the artists open their studios for the public to view their works, meet the artists and hopefully find an artwork that speaks to your soul!
Find more details here.