Celebrating 2 Years Where Art & Hope Met in Mitchells Plain
RLabs House stands as the beacon of creativity and hope in the heart of Mitchells Plain. This year is celebrating its second anniversary with a much-anticipated exhibition called, “Where Art & Hope Meet.”
The exhibition, running for August and September 2024, marks a significant moment in the community’s cultural landscape, spotlighting new and emerging artists from across Cape Town.
The celebration is a testament to RLabs House’s mission to nurture and uplift artistic talent in an often marginalized and overlooked community. Since its inception, RLabs House has been more than just a gallery; it has become a symbol of resilience, a place where creativity meets community, and where art truly embodies hope while hosting a world-class space to spend an overnight stay in the AirBnB.
Earlier this year, the gallery issued a “Call For Artists,” inviting aspiring artists to submit three artworks each for consideration. The response was overwhelming, with submissions pouring in from all corners of Cape Town. After a rigorous selection process, five artists were chosen to feature their work in this community landmark.
Among them is Angelo Solomons, who embarked on his artistic journey in January 2016. With nothing more than craft supplies ordered online and a passion for painting, Angelo has developed a distinctive style that resonates with both the local community and the broader art world.
Bradley Bailey, a self-taught artist, made his debut at the Alliance Française in Mitchells Plain in 2001. Known for his mixed media pieces, Bradley’s work captures the raw essence of his environment, blending various materials to create art that speaks directly to the soul.
Kind Arts, co-founded by Keziah Coetzee and Althea de Wet, has grown from modest beginnings into a powerhouse of creative storytelling. Their work is known for bringing art to life in unique and inspiring ways, making them a vital part of the Cape Town art scene.
Zoe Varga, originally from Kensington, has spent the past five years living and working in Mitchells Plain. Her art reflects her deep connection to the area, capturing the vibrancy and challenges of life in the community with a perspective that is both intimate and universal.
Lastly, Gillroy Prince, a Cape Town-based Graphic Designer, and Illustrator, brings over a decade of experience to the exhibition. Since starting his career in 2005, Gillroy has honed his craft, creating visually stunning pieces that blend graphic design and illustration in innovative ways.
As part of its anniversary celebrations, a documentary showcasing the journey of RLabs House and Gallery is now available on YouTube. The content delves into the origins of the gallery, its impact on the community, and the significance of its very first “First Thursdays” event in 2022, a night that marked the beginning of a new cultural movement in Mitchells Plain.
In a community often overshadowed by the challenges of socio-economic hardship, RLabs House and Gallery stands as this beacon of possibility and creativity. The success of the “Where Art & Hope Meet” exhibition is a profound achievement, underlining the transformative power of art. It’s not just about the artwork on the walls but about the stories behind them; the stories of perseverance, creativity, and hope.
As the exhibition continues to draw visitors from all walks of life, it is clear that RLabs House and Gallery is cementing its place as an inspiration to the Mitchells Plain community, offering a space where art and hope truly meet.
