Created By
Fumani Maluleke
Acrylic on reed mat (Framed and mounted)
Curator
Artbridger Curator
In "Basikiri," Maluleke masterfully intertwines the elemental textures of the grass mat with the vibrant hues of acrylic, creating a harmonious visual symphony that resonates with the pulse of rural life. The composition's nuanced play between light and shadow invites viewers to contemplate the interplay of tradition and modernity, as symbolized by the solitary figure on the bicycle navigating the timeless landscape. Through his innovative choice of medium, Maluleke elevates the grass mat from a utilitarian object to a poignant canvas of cultural heritage, inviting us to reflect on the enduring narratives woven into the fabric of South Africa's rural identity.
Basikiri is a visual ode to the rhythm of rural life, captured on the humble yet profound surface of a grass mat. The piece unfolds like a cinematic frame, where the dirt road, punctuated by old telephone poles and modest structures, serves as both a literal and metaphorical pathway. Maluleke invites us into the heart of Limpopo’s rural soul—a place where time feels suspended yet deeply connected to lineage and memory. The grass mat medium itself is revolutionary, transforming an object of rest into an artifact of cultural storytelling.
Created By
Fumani Maluleke
95 x 194 cm | 37 x 76 in
2025
