Johannesburg to New York @ MoCADA.org

South African Artist | Samson Mnisi






Johannesburg to New York - Curated by Kimberli E. Gant
January 29 – May 17, 2009

Johannesburg to New York is the first retrospective of the collaborative work between South African artist Samson Mnisi and New York artist Cannon Hersey. Combining their various perspectives on the changing cultural dynamics of South Africa and its emergence onto the world stage, these artists have created mixed media imagery that is socially conscious while also being visually stimulating. Mnisi incorporates ancient Zulu symbolism and rituals with Hersey's captivating photography to give viewers insider and outsider perspectives on contemporary South African societies.

OPENING RECEPTION
Thursday, JANUARY 29, 2009 7-9pm

Please join us for the first viewing of Johannesburg to New York with featured artists Cannon Hersey and Samson Mnisi. The reception will include live music by DJ Eddie Ed, South African cuisine from Brooklyn's own Madiba restaurant and a selection of South African wines. Come and enjoy a bit of South Africa in your own neighborhood.



American Artist | Cannon Hershey









ARTIST TALK
Thursday, FEBRUARY 5, 2009 6:30-8pm

Suggested donation of $4 Both Sampson Mnisi and Cannon Hersey will lead a tour and discussion about their historical collaboration to visitors to give an in-depth understanding of the work. The artists will present examples of previous work and how they created the light boxes. Curator, Kimberli Gant, will also discuss the work’s thematic principles and how she organized the exhibition together.

PANEL DISCUSSION – THE EVOLUTION OF CONTEMPORARY SOUTH AFRICAN ART
Saturday, FEBRUARY 14, 2009 2-3:30pm National Black Fine Art Show 7 West 34th Street (34th St & 5th Ave) RSVP: pb@mocada.org

Bringing together some of the foremost academics/collectors/artists throughout New York City to discuss the current state of contemporary art in South Africa. This is an opportunity for audiences to broaden their understanding of what contemporary art means in both a Western and non-Western context. This event will coincide with the National Black Fine Art Show (NBFAS). Celebrating 13 years, it is the largest art fair in New York dedicated to the African Diaspora, and draws 1,000+ individuals each year.

Panelists include: Lisa Binder - Curator, Museum of African Art Canon Hersey – MoCADA Exhibiting Artist Samson Mnisi – MoCADA Exhibiting Artist Dr. Gary Van Wyck - Founder & Director, Axis Gallery

SOUTH AFRICAN FREEDOM DAY FESTIVAL

Saturday, MAY 2, 2009 1-6pm Cuyler Gore Park, Brooklyn, NY (one block from MoCADA) In an effort to celebrate the 15th anniversary South Africa’s first Black president and coinciding with the United States’ first election of a Black president, MoCADA will partner with the Museum of African Art to host Brooklyn’s first South African Freedom Day celebration. Held the first weekend of May 2009, the event will feature live music, dance performances, art vendors, and the film Come Back, Africa, featuring the late, iconic performer, Mariam Makeba. Come join us for the incredible event!


For more information contact: MoCADA | www.mocada.org