South-African artist Nicolas Hlobo has made a name for himself, creating thematic art through his signature art style that usually makes use of meticulously crafted thin, but defined lines and very distinctive colors. His work ranges from painting on flat surfaces like paper and cloth to symbolism-laden sculptures, installations and performances. His work strongly reflects the themes that are pertinent to his life as a post-apartheid citizen of South Africa and a gay man. He uses elements in his art to depict elements of gender and gender roles and tell tales about history, provoking not just the eyes to action, but the mind as well. The 2002 Fine Arts graduate of the Technikon Witwatersrand institute uses his work to challenge preconceived notions that the world may have formed about his people.
In 2022, Hlobo prepares to make a return to London for an exhibition. The exhibition, taking place at Lehmann Maupin from the 11th of March to the 30th of April will feature the artist’s latest work, and it is titled “Elizeni Ienkanyiso”, which translates to “on the wave of enlightenment” from his native tongue of Xhosa.
South-African artist Nicolas Hlobo has made a name for himself, creating thematic art through his signature art style that usually makes use of meticulously crafted thin, but defined lines and very distinctive colors. His work ranges from painting on flat surfaces like paper and cloth to symbolism-laden sculptures, installations and performances. His work strongly reflects the themes that are pertinent to his life as a post-apartheid citizen of South Africa and a gay man. He uses elements in his art to depict elements of gender and gender roles and tell tales about history, provoking not just the eyes to action, but the mind as well. The 2002 Fine Arts graduate of the Technikon Witwatersrand institute uses his work to challenge preconceived notions that the world may have formed about his people.
In 2022, Hlobo prepares to make a return to London for an exhibition. The exhibition, taking place at Lehmann Maupin from the 11th of March to the 30th of April will feature the artist’s latest work, and it is titled “Elizeni Ienkanyiso”, which translates to “on the wave of enlightenment” from his native tongue of Xhosa.
