Painting Features African Leaders

Why this is here: The painting features a round table with eleven figures, leaving one chair intentionally vacant as a symbol of inclusivity for all Africans.

Thebe Ikalafeng commissioned a three-meter canvas titled “Africa ReUnion” depicting prominent African figures. The painting, created by Mark Modimola, shows leaders like Nelson Mandela, Miriam Makeba, and Muammar Gaddafi seated at a table. Ikalafeng unveiled the work at the Unisa Art Gallery in Pretoria, stating it challenges perceptions of Africa’s place in the world.

The exhibition also includes art from across the continent, celebrating African imagination and thought. Simultaneously, Auda-Nepad, an AU development agency based in Midrand, South Africa, celebrated its 25th anniversary with a gathering in Johannesburg. CEO Nardos Bekele-Thomas emphasized the importance of African-led development and institutional building.

Ikalafeng intentionally left one seat empty in his painting, inviting viewers to claim their place. The article notes the events both experienced delayed starts, a common occurrence when coordinating gatherings of this scale. The long-term impact of Auda-Nepad’s projects remains to be fully seen.