Basikiri

Curator

Luke Chapman

There's something almost beatific in the way Maluleke layers acrylics onto this woven substrate; the mat’s texture becomes an active participant in the narrative, grounding the work in authenticity while adding dimensionality. I see "Basikiri" as a meditation on movement—both physical and generational. The boy on his bicycle is more than a figure; he’s an emblem of transition, navigating between past traditions and future possibilities. Maluleke’s choice to depict this scene on a grass mat speaks volumes about his ability to innovate while honoring roots. The work challenges us to rethink what constitutes a canvas and pushes boundaries in how we perceive rural landscapes—not as static relics but as dynamic spaces brimming with life and meaning. This piece isn’t just art; it’s a cultural script written with intention and care. It whispers stories of sacrifice, familial bonds, and the enduring spirit of South Africa’s rural communities. For me, "Basikiri" feels like standing at a crossroads—where history meets hope, where tradition meets transformation.