THE MASWANGANYI FAMILY

Curated by Elfriede Dreyer

1 to 23 October 2005

The Maswanganyi family comes from a village in Gyani that abounds in artistic talent.

Johannes Maswanganyi is an acclaimed South African sculptor who has exhibited both locally and internationally. Grounded in his Christian view on life, his work entails mainly religious and socio-political themes.

Collen Maswanganyi was taught his sculpturing skills by his father, although he has attended a tertiary institution to refine his skills In general Collen’s work represents hardworking African people in the corporate sector. He also acknowledges the advantages of modern inventions and how they can impact on rural life in a positive way. Studio at Kaalfontein in Midrand.

Collen’s art incorporated issues relating to both the African traditions in which he has been raised with and the modern world he lives in. While he depicts the life of traditional Africans - their dressing, lifestyles and customs - he contrasts this with Africans participating in the modern, hi-tech world.