Represent Recommends: Gallery Momo
There was something so authentic about the Gallery Momo, the second last stop on our whirlwind 5 gallery tour in Rosebank on a Saturday afternoon. Our souls were already topped up by the mind-blowing artistic talent we had witnessed at the Alliance, the David Krut (MUST SEE!) and the Goodman (MUST SEE!) and we wondered why all the galleries were so empty when they should have been buzzing. Then we got to the MOMO gallery in 7th ave Parktown North – we have been meaning to visit for ages. One of the true highlights of our gallery adventure was just how welcoming and friendly the faces at nearly all the galleries were – and Momo was no exception when, within minutes, the interesting and charming down-to-earth owner Monna Mokoena, came out of his way to chat to us and welcome us to his beautifully designed gallery that is home to many an unusual contemporary artwork.
Monna had us hook, line and sinker- his tales of contemporary hot and happening South African artists and their backstories keeping us wide-eyed and wanting more. That’s why we’ll be going back this Thursday to the opening of Andrew Tshabangu’s photographic exhibition and that’s why you should be joining us too. For what happiness is there in life without the arts? (Editorista’s latest existential theory!) See u there.
Andrew Tshabangu – biog:
Born in 1966 in Soweto, Andrew has studied at a number of institutions, amongst them at the Institute of Advancement for Journalism in 1998 and at the Alexandra Community art centre in Johannesburg. He taught photography at the Children’s Photography Workshop, 1995 and in 1998 and 1999 he taught at both the Market Photo Workshop and post Matric photography courses.
In 1998 he was an artist in residency at the Gasworks Art Studio, London. Tshabangu’s experience in documenting the spiritual ceremonies of black communities came into play in capturing the rituals of daily life in an African metropolis. As a photographer he is renowned for smoky, atmospheric lighting that lends a mystical element to his images.
ANDREW TSHABANGU @ MOMO
CITY IN TRANSITION
14 JUNE – 07 JULY
OPENING THURSDAY 14 JUNE @ 18H30
52 7TH AVENUE PARKTOWN NORTH JOHANNESBURG
T: +27 11 327 3247
