A vibrant Ndebele mural by Esther Mahlangu illuminates unity in Serpentine North – Colossal

a mural depicting colorful Ndebele shapes and patterns outlined with a black border

For more than eight decades Dr. Esther Mahlangu has created large-scale, site-specific works that build on the artistic traditions of Ndebele culture.

Known for her vibrant patterned compositions, Mahlangu learned home decorating techniques from her mother and grandmother while growing up in South Africa. She mixes natural pigments with clay, soil and cow dung to paint directly on the exterior of buildings in her village.

a mural with colorful Ndebele shapes and patterns outlined with a black border
Photo by George Darrell

Ndebele house painting originated in the mid-18th century when the matrilineal tribe began building huts out of mud instead of grass. Women applied colorful patterns to the walls to not only brighten up the village, but also to communicate with others.

The geometric shapes, characterized by bold, black contours, serve as a visual language to express personal values, prayers or important life events.

Mahlangu paints by hand without the use of stencils or tape, using chicken feathers and various brushes to create meticulous geometries that maintain the handmade quality. Over time, she also created numerous works on canvas, using acrylic to broaden the range of tones in her work.

artist Esther Mahlangu in the doorway of a building she painted with Ndebele patterns
Esther Mahlangu photographed by Clint Strydom, courtesy of The Melrose Gallery

Bee Serpentine North in Hyde Park, London, Mahlangu’s first installation the UK was unveiled this week on a wall in the gallery’s garden.

The monumental mural, consisting of six wooden panels, celebrates unity and community and adheres to a Ndebele philosophy: ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’, which translates to: ‘I am because you are.’

The mural will remain on display until September 28, 2025. Plan your visit to the Serpentine websiteand learn more about Mahlangu’s remarkable work and career with her website And Instagram.

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artist Esther Mahlangu paints colorful Ndebele patterns
Photo by Clint Strydom, courtesy of The Melrose Gallery



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