Published 07 November 2024 in The Viewing Room Art Gallery
Art Review: Illness Became Her - A Bold Exploration of Vulnerability and Strength
In the solo exhibition Illness Became Her, the artist delves into the complexities of illness, identity, and emotional vulnerability, offering a powerful reflection on the human condition. The title itself is a provocative statement, suggesting both a burden and a transformation of identity, as the artist navigates the intersection between personal suffering and resilience.
The exhibition presents a deeply intimate narrative, where illness becomes not just a physical state but a transformative force that reshapes her identity. She has an alter ego represented by a giraffe, chosen for its blend of strength and vulnerability.
Upon entering, visitors hear blues music playing in the background, immediately creating a sense of prestige. Contrary to the exhibition’s title, the space is full of color and inviting, avoiding an overly serious tone. The exhibition is at once raw and poetic, where vulnerability is laid bare but never romanticized. The artist uses digital print and layering to evoke the weight of illness, creating a tactile experience that invites viewers to feel the emotional intensity of each piece.
Yet, Illness Became Her is not solely about suffering; it is about the strength that emerges from it. The artist reclaims illness as a part of her identity—not as a diminishing factor, but as a powerful element that transforms her into something new.
Written by Kgothatso Mathabathe