Curated by WHAG’s Chief Curator Chepape Makgato, the curatorial vision of this year’s double-bill emphasises spiritual depth, cultural memory, and artistic persistence across generations and geographies. 

Chepape joins Yolanda Maartens in the OFM ArtBeat to share his excitement about these two artists and their respective exhibitions which are hosted until the 30th June 2025.

These two exhibitions shown simultaneously in different wings, are more than just artistic presentations; they are intensely personal expressions of identity, cultural heritage, and inherited wisdom. 

Together, they provide visitors with a fascinating meditation on African spirituality, femininity, masculinity, family, and personal transformation, evoking the spirit of unity and rebirth celebrated during Africa Month. 

WHAG Exhibition Space. Photo supplied

Usen Obot: Spirits & Souls In Spirits & Souls

Nigerian-born, South African-based artist Usen Obot delves into the spiritual depth of his Ibibio heritage through bold sculptural works created from wood and metal. These pieces were developed during residencies in Eastern Cape and Gauteng, and are inspired by the Ekpo society, a precolonial institution that fused governance, religion, and communal order through ancestral guardianship. 

“In my work, I seek to facilitate and bring into contemporary discourse and spaces there-interpretation and presentation of an African narrative from the history of African culture and governance systems that fused religion, spirituality and administration,” Obot explained.  

Bongi Bengu: My Cup Runneth Over 

For artist Bongi Bengu, “My Cup Runneth Over” marks a milestone in her artistic journey – a celebration of over thirty years of creativity, transformation and becoming. 

“This exhibition is a celebration of a journey – over thirty years of creation, exploration, and becoming,” Bengu writes. “From the quiet beginnings of my artistic voice to travelling across continents, embracing different mediums, and collecting stories and techniques along the way. 

“My Cup Runneth Over” is both a reflection and a declaration. ”Each artwork functions as a vessel of memory, holding space for emotion, transformation, and the enduring strength of African womanhood. Whether expressed through layered textures or subtle figurative gestures, her work honours the emotional and spiritual labour carried by women – while also offering moments of gratitude, joy and renewal. 

“This is not just a look back,” she continues, “It’s a pouring forth. My cup, indeed, runneth over.” 

Double Bill presents a symphony of spirit and self, connecting two artists whose practices embody ancestral continuity, personal reflection, and cultural inquiry. 

“These exhibitions resonate with the call of Africa Month: to return, to reflect, to reconnect,” says Makgato. “They remind us that art is not separate from life – it is a portal to the past, a witness to the present, and a dream for the future.” 

As a celebration of heritage, identity and creativity, “Spirits & Souls” and “My Cup Runneth Over” reinforce WHAG’s commitment to curating transformative exhibitions that speak to the complexity and richness of African artistic expression. 

Exhibition Details

Exhibition Dates: 22 May - 30 June 2025

Venue: William Humphreys Art Gallery, Cullinan Crescent, Kimberley

Opening Event: 22 May 2025 at 17h30 for 18h00

Curator: Chepape Makgato

Admission: Free 

For interviews, images, or programming details, please contact Malikah Meyer at malikah@whag.co.za or 0538311724. Website: www.whag.co.za

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