In the exciting world of contemporary art, sometimes incredible stories happen behind the scenes, between the brushstrokes and the exhibitions. The story of Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi, a renowned South African artist, is a striking example. Recently, a 33-year-old mystery was resolved in a most unexpected way: 28 works by this talented designer found their way back to their land of origin, to the delight of all.
The story dates back to 1991, when Sebidi was invited to Nyköping, a small Swedish town on the Baltic Sea, to participate in a program called “Cultural Work with Developing Countries.” She brought with her 28 of her creations for a month-long residency, where she shared her knowledge about South Africa, as well as her country’s politics and art, at the Nyköping Folk High School, a residential adult education school.
However, the planned progress of the exhibition was compromised, leaving Sebidi waiting for his precious works. She was told that they had been stolen and that she would never see them again. A hard blow for the artist who had to deal with the pain of this loss for many years.
Then, in May 2023, an unexpected event happened. Nyköping school caretaker Jesper Osterberg set out to clean out a long-neglected cupboard. It was there that he discovered a scroll of works hidden behind Christmas decorations, bearing the name of Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi. This astonishing outcome marked the beginning of the journey of these lost treasures back to their original homeland.
Today, these found works are on display at the University of Johannesburg Art Gallery, providing a unique opportunity for South Africans to discover them for the first time. The emotion was palpable during the reunion between the artist and his precious creations, putting an end to decades of separation.
In her workshop in Johannesburg, Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi, dressed in a green and brown dress, and wearing a brown beret matching her outfit, found her inspiration and the joy of seeing her works come back to her. At 81 years old, the artist shares his story marked by determination, creativity and challenges overcome.
Born in 1943 near Hammanskraal, Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi drew her talent from the teachings of her ancestors, who were themselves potters and painters. Raised by her grandmother, she learned from a young age that art and creativity were means of transmitting essential messages for future generations.
Despite a journey full of pitfalls, Sebidi followed his passion for art, finding in painting and sculpture a means of expression and resilience. His dedication and perseverance have been rewarded with numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, the highest honor in South Africa.
Through her paintings imbued with emotional depth and a quest for decolonization, Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi has captured the very essence of the history, diversity and resilience of the South African people. His triumphant return to the national artistic scene resonates as a tribute to his undeniable talent and his inestimable contribution to the country’s art and culture.
Thus ends a painful chapter in the artistic history of Mmakgabo Helen Sebidi, marked by the loss and rediscovery of her forgotten works. His exceptional journey, marked by the strength of his talent and the depth of his artistic commitment, remains a living testimony to creativity and human resilience in the face of adversity.