In this episode I speak with Bonobo Kavula whose art exists between the intersections of painting, printmaking, drawing, and sculpture, pushing the limitations of each. Initially creating the punched circular discs from canvas, Bonolo has moved to using traditional shweshwe cloth, invoking cultural, ancestral, archival and historical connotations specific to her work. Using her mother’s red shweshwe dress (a family heirloom) as inspiration, bonolo’s work can thus be read through the lens of memory – both collective and individual.

Her dedication to creating works that provide solace in life's chaos resonates deeply, as we uncover the power of art to piece together fragments of both fabric and the human spirit.Bonolo's approach to incorporating the vibrant threads of history into every piece she creates is nothing short of inspiring. She reveals the meticulous process of blending traditional shweshwe with innovative techniques, fostering a connection with her cultural heritage that's as tangible as the fabric she manipulates. 

The pursuit of excellence is a thread that weaves through every artist's narrative, and in this episode, it binds my reflections with the enduring legacy of Dr. Esther Mahlangu. We explore what it means to be an emerging artist striving for timelessness, the significance of cultural authenticity, and the shared quest for perfection in art. 

You can connect with Bonolo at https://www.bonolokavula.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/bonolokavula/