This joint exhibition combines the work of two Johannesburg-based artists who both work at the Eloff Street Studios. Not only does it represent the coming-together of two artists, but also their unique practices.
Nkhensani Rihlampfu’s work is inspired by his personal hopes as an artist and the struggles with the demons in his life. In their tortured surfaces these sculptures made of rope express the struggles of our lives in many ways - as alluded to by the titling of the individual pieces. The artist states “I often have to redirect my energies to achieve goals and destinations that have often remained out of reach” - these works are all inspired by such moments and pivots.
Richard Ketley's work is also about destinations and adjusting expectations. The works have elements of maps and pathways, often cut and redirected, that are inspired by the artist's many travels in Africa. Ketley explores surfaces in the way he explores the world - these works, which include collaged elements, are painted on a tarpaulin - a tarpaulin that was purchased from a truck that travels Africa's dusty roads, and that started life as a billboard for cosmetics. The bold shapes and rapid changes in direction of the work attest to the vibrancy of the experience they seek to capture.
Together this exhibition combines different perspectives and expressions of hope and perseverance: we all struggle to achieve our personal destinations - yet that goal often remains out of reach.