One More Thing

It would be an injustice to leave Capetown behind without sharing the extraordinary Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art.

As amazing as the art is the building, a converted silo.

From every floor can be seen the unique architecture and the enormous tapestry that hangs above the entrance.

The current exhibit focuses on Zimbabwe, a country that has experienced much turmoil in recent years. Many Zimbabweans have left the country to begin life anew and that has caused tension between those who remain and those who have departed. Artists examine how individuals can obtain a sense of belonging in multiple locations.

Spirituality is deeply imbedded in the Zimbabwean culture, and I was enchanted by how this free flowing piece communicated its importance. I read that the significance of spirituality is also displayed by how many evangelical churches offering hope and healing have sprung up.

Judging from the political pieces, there is or has been dissatisfaction with the country’s leadership. Some of the art struck me as satirical

or metaphorical as is this look inside a former president’s closet.

Some paintings had daily life interwoven with the political.

I liked the work that incorporated familiar household items such as the doily which remind me of my grandmother and mother. Evidently, the doily was at one time also a source of income for hardworking mothers who sold their work to put food on the table.

I got very excited over this piece thinking it was fiber art. Though it looked like knitted strips, it was done with colorful silicon to create a thick glossy surface.

Can you tell I was enthralled by this place. Not only did the art give me much to think about, I was excited by the use of material and color and the way the art was displayed. Should you ever get to Capetown, this is one place you don’t want to miss as much for the building as for what’s inside.

i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind