INDIANAPOLIS – The world may know Nelson Mandela as an activist, but he will soon be reintroduced as an artist as his work is displayed in an exhibit titled, Nelson Mandela: The Artist.
The free exhibit, opening Sept. 9 at Long-Sharp Gallery Indianapolis, will feature two dozen drawings and hand-signed original lithographs created by Mandela in 2002 and 2003.
The collection will focus on Mandela’s 18 years in prison on Robben Island and his reflections on the experience after his release.
This is the second time the collection has been displayed in the US. The first was at New York’s Rockefeller Center in 2003.
Seating will be offered as owner, Rhonda Long-Sharp, hopes the pieces will provoke peaceful dialog given the escalation of racial tensions in the US.
“Its timeliness could be no more plain. In light of recent events in our country, it is my hope that we can learn from Nelson Mandela’s example,” said Long-Sharp. “His artworks and the essays he wrote to accompany them will be available to see and absorb. It is my hope that they will serve as a step toward peaceful dialog. Local and government groups wishing to reserve the gallery space for meetings to discuss this topic are welcome to contact us.”
Copies of Mandela’s book, The Long Walk to Freedom will be available as well. Some of the featured artwork will be for sale with a portion of proceeds going to charity.
An opening celebration will take place Sept. 9 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. It is free and open to the public.
