The inspiring Dr Esther Mahlangu, South African artist, icon and national treasure, has just turned 90.
Johannesburg, South Africa (14 November 2025) – That’s 90 years of life, with 80 of those years spent illuminating Ndebele culture through art.
Dr Esther became one of the first South African women artists to ever gain global recognition. She’s earned honours that include three honorary doctorates, France’s Order of Arts and Letters, and her recent induction into South Africa’s Gallery of Legends in 2023.
“Mahlangu is a living symbol of triumph against adversity. She is one of the first among South African artists, as well as among women artists, to become a global icon of the art world. Her affable demeanour and her ability to inspire creativity and delight in so many around the world, has earned her reputation as a matriarch and mentor of the contemporary art world. Her approach to art has inspired generations of younger artists and reaffirms the call for Africa to take its rightful place at centre stage in the story of art,” shares Curator Nontobeko Ntombela.
Just months ago, Dr Esther’s retrospective, Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting, drew crowds in Cape Town and Joburg with more than 100 artworks tracing her career, including one of her most historic creations – the first-ever ‘African Art Car’ created for BMW in 1991.
Her art continues to have an impact on African artists carving out their place today.
This month, in celebration of her 90th, The Melrose Gallery is hosting a group exhibition. The Light We Carry opened on 7 November. It’s a celebration of African artists who continue to shape culture, and Dr Mahlangu is honoured at the centre of it all. Her works are on display at the gallery alongside other artists Ayanda Mabulu, Aza Mansongi, Vusi Beauchamp & more.
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Reaching 90 is extraordinary on its own. Reaching 90 while still collaborating and showing up for South African art and Ndebele culture is something even more special. Happy 90th birthday, Dr Esther Mahlangu. South Africa is grateful for your light.
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