Nyakallo Maleke, Thandwie Msebenzi, Slindile Mthembu, Cazlynne Peffer, Sethembile Msezane

Resilience: Pleasure and Self-Care in a Precarious World

14.11.-20.12.2014

Opening: 14.11.2024, 5-9pm

In a powerful convergence of artistic expression and lived experiences, the exhibition brings together a cadre of formidable artists and centres on the experiences, resilience, and creative expressions of Cazlynne Peffer, Nyakallo Maleke, Sethembile Msezane, Slindile Mthembu, and Thandiwe Msebenzi each addressing different aspects of resilience, pleasure, and self-care through various artistic mediums. 

They delve into the complex landscape of women’s experiences amidst societal inequalities and gender bias. 

Through their thought-provoking narratives that reshape perceptions and demand recognition, they invite viewers to explore narratives surrounding mental health, sexual trauma, vulnerability and the intersections of pleasure, self-care, and the nuanced challenges faced by women, in a world that often demands unwavering resilience at the expense of self-care. 

The exhibition stands as a testament to the transformative power of creativity, emphasising the importance of self-care and the profound significance of pleasure in women’s lives. This exhibition positions self-care and pleasure as radical expressions of resistance, self-preservation, and empowerment, paying tribute to the strength and beauty inherent in women’s lives.

„Reclaiming Resilience“ invites all audiences to explore the intimate yet universal themes of pleasure and self-care in today’s changing world. 

It is a celebration of resilience, strength, and the transformative essence embedded within the stories of women, inviting everyone to witness, reflect, and appreciate narratives of healing and empowerment.

This exhibition aims to convey the idea of pleasure and self-care as a form of empowerment and also a form of resistance against systemic challenges and injustices highlighting women’s agency in prioritising their well-being within the socio-political context. They’re challenging norms, daring to prioritise themselves amidst societal pressures that frown upon them.
It is a reminder that self-care is not just a personal act; it is a political statement and a revolutionary act that challenges systems of oppression and celebrates the resilience of all women.

 

Exhibiting Artists:

Thandiwe Msebenzi: Delving into mending and remembering lost histories, Thandiwe unravels narratives embedded in age-old games of Isiqendu, crafting a tapestry of resilience, pleasure, and self-care.

Slindile Mthembu: Her evocative artwork serves as a heartfelt dedication to the Black female body, navigating the weight of fatigue, remembrance, and the ongoing struggle to emancipate from historical burdens.

 Sethembile Msezane: Exploring themes of spirituality, commemoration, and African knowledge systems. Her work wrestles with spiritual and everyday realities, becoming a reckoning of loss, grief, and vulnerability. 

Nyakallo Maleke: Her creations encapsulate the universal longing for healing and connection, inviting viewers to find solace in the simplest of ways and emphasizing the profound impact of community on collective well-being.

Cazlynne Peffer: Delves into the psychological aftermath of rape, Cazlynne Peffer offers viewers a visceral encounter with the lingering effects of trauma through adept manipulation of materials, crafting a poetic narrative beyond physical scars.