As Art Month in Cape Town draws to a close, we take one final look at the unforgettable opening of Billie Zangewa: Breeding Ground, curated by Anelisa Mangcu at Norval Foundation.
Breeding Ground explores nurturing as a transformative force—one that fuels growth, creation, and connection. Billie Zangewa (b. 1973) masterfully employs silk collage to examine cycles of care that shape human existence, offering a profound meditation on resilience, identity, community, and motherhood. At the heart of the exhibition is an emphasis on the power of care—an essential process that extends beyond biological relationships. Whether directed toward a child, an idea, the environment, or a relationship, care becomes a catalyst for transformation. By working with silk, Zangewa encapsulates both fragility and strength, reflecting the duality within these narratives.
Her artwork moves between the deeply personal and the collective, drawing from her experiences as a Malawian-South African woman, mother, and artist. While rooted in intimate portrayals, her work expands beyond domestic life to address broader socio-political themes, including cultural identity, gender roles, and the complexities of women’s lives. Through intricate silk compositions and vibrant patterns, Zangewa merges African textiles and cultural symbols, simultaneously challenging stereotypes and celebrating African femininity through a contemporary lens.
Johannesburg, with its dynamic contrasts and urban energy, serves as a significant backdrop in her work. The city’s textures, rhythms, and architectural landscapes—particularly its public transport systems—are vividly captured, infusing her art with an unmistakable sense of place and movement. Highlighting the role of collective care within communities, Breeding Ground draws from oral histories and shared narratives, recognizing the contributions of women and caregivers in shaping both individual and communal identities. It reinforces the deep interconnectedness of human relationships.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating this remarkable exhibition. Your presence and engagement have helped bring these works to life, fostering a space for reflection, dialogue, and appreciation of Zangewa’s artistry. For those who have not yet visited, there is still time to experience this extraordinary collection of silk collages firsthand. The exhibition runs until 11 September—we encourage you to immerse yourself in Zangewa’s exquisite storytelling before it closes. Through her lens, we are reminded of the power of care, the resilience of the human spirit, and the beauty of transformation.
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