Biography

Abe Mathabe, born in Pimville, Soweto, in 1959, is a skilled printmaker with a rich artistic background. From 1980, he studied part-time under the renowned Durant Sihlali at Entokwezweni Community Centre. He later completed the Foundation Course at the Johannesburg Art Foundation and a Graphic Design Course in 1993, both sponsored by Nedbank. From 1994 to 1996, Abe honed his craft at Artist Proof Studio (APS), becoming a professional printmaker.

Mathabe's work has been widely exhibited, including a two-person show with Dumisani Sibisi at the Civic Centre (1994) and the "30 Years of Printmaking" exhibition at Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) in 2004. He has participated in exhibitions with the Miniature Art Society of South Africa, as well as the annual "Black Like Me" exhibitions at the Manor Gallery, Fourways. His work has been auctioned at Sotheby’s, and he has exhibited internationally in New York and South Wales. A significant milestone was his 2008 participation in the World Federation of Miniature Art exhibition in Durnie, Tasmania, sponsored by Herman Mashaba of "Black Like Me," where he demonstrated his unique techniques.

Abe has also created public art, including a three-floor mural at the Raphael Hotel in Sandton, a project won through a Legacy Group competition, and the Standard Bank Picasso mural in Johannesburg, linked to the Picasso and Africa exhibition in 2006. His large sculpture is prominently displayed at Uncle Tom’s Hall in Orlando West, near the Hector Peterson Memorial.

Artist Statement

Abe Mathabe is known for his mastery of the intimate in his work on paper, specialising in delicate drypoint prints and intricate ballpoint pen drawings. He draws inspiration from the landscapes of South Africa and Botswana, often sketching scenes like "ladies moving away on windy days." Deeply influenced by Rembrandt van Rijn, Mathabe’s work captures the essence of his surroundings with a unique and detailed perspective.