Welcome to the virtual exhibition of William Kentridge, a luminary in the world of contemporary art. Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Kentridge’s journey into the arts was shaped by his early experiences in a country grappling with the harsh realities of apartheid. His education at the Johannesburg Art Foundation and studies in mime and theatre at the L’École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq in Paris further honed his unique artistic vision.

Kentridge’s work is a symphony of mediums. He masterfully blends drawing, printmaking, animation, and performance art to create multidimensional pieces that are as thought-provoking as they are visually stunning. His signature technique, known as “drawings for projection,” involves the creation of charcoal drawings that are subsequently filmed, altered through erasure and redrawing, and then filmed again. This process results in animated films that carry a raw, sketch-like quality, imbuing his work with a sense of fluidity and dynamism.

The themes prevalent in Kentridge’s work are a reflection of his South African roots and his keen observation of the human condition. He explores concepts of history, memory, identity, politics, and social justice, using his art as a platform to comment on the socio-political landscape of post-apartheid South Africa and the world at large. His work is a poignant reminder of the power of art to challenge, to question, and to inspire.

In the global art discourse, Kentridge’s contributions are monumental. His work has been showcased in prestigious institutions worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Louvre in Paris. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the Kyoto Prize in Arts and Philosophy, underscoring his significant influence on contemporary art.

As you navigate this exhibition, we invite you to delve deeper into Kentridge’s creative process. Consider his words: “In the studio… I follow the paths where they lead, and in the end, I see an image that comes out of the process.” This philosophy, this willingness to embrace uncertainty and to allow the process to guide the outcome, is at the heart of Kentridge’s artistry.

We hope this introduction provides you with a deeper understanding of William Kentridge’s work and sparks your curiosity. As you explore, we encourage you to reflect on the themes and motifs in his art and consider the powerful messages they convey. Enjoy your journey through the compelling world of William Kentridge. Welcome to the exhibition.