“Umoya-Mmuo-Spirit” Yebo’s 55th exhibition to date is an engaging exploration into the complexities, nuances and implications of the word and concept of the spirit. The exhibition features artwork from Yebo artists, Ray Berman, Tony Marshak, Penny Mobsby Luoma, Nathi Tembe, Celimpilo Dlamini, Phindile Mamba, Tutu Mkhabela, Fela Dlamini and Khulekani Msweli. From Eswatini’s growing crop of emerging artists, the exhibition features work from Sambulo Shongwe, Angelina Edje and Busisiwe Manana, in addition to two emerging South African photographers, Eza Helder and Sammy Sinalo. With an array of perspectives, artists have engaged with the word “spirit” in a variety of ways, exploring the spirit of youth, the spirit of Eswatini and the human spiritual connection.
Umoya-Mmuo-Spirit offers viewers a dynamic selection of creative mediums from painting, drawing and photography to screen printed fabrics, clay pottery and wood sculpture. In an effort to continue the inclusion of women in handcraft in gallery spaces, the exhibition features playful and illustrative prints from two women led handcraft co-operatives, Siyaphambili and Indzaba Yami who have undergone product development, textile design and basic screen printing workshops run by Yebo! Art Gallery in partnership with the International Trade Center’s Alliances for Action Program funded by the European Union. Yebo! Art Gallery’s partnership with the International Trade Center’s Alliances for Action program has helped equip Siyaphambili and Indzaba Yami with the skills and knowledge needed for them to develop into self-sustaining handcraft and textile design enterprises that are focused on women and community development.
Ushering in the festive season, “Umoya-Mmuo-Spirit” will run until the 21st of January, 2023.