Lebohang Kganye - Since winning Sasol New Signatures

Sasol New Signatures 2018 was recently launched at an event hosted at Sasol Place in Sandton, Johannesburg. One of the guest speakers was our 2017 overall winner Lebohang Kganye and after her presentation to media and invited guests we got a chance to catch up with her.

Can you identify the primary benefit of entering and winning the 2017 competition?

Winning Sasol New Signatures 2018 gave impetus to my profile in South Africa.

It might seem strange - but as I work with a number of international galleries my work has had international exposure - but prior to Sasol New Signatures not much local publicity. Now I have had the opportunity to expose local artists and art lovers to my work which has been very rewarding.

This time last year you were putting the final touches to your entry for the 2017 competition and now you are preparing for your first solo exhibition. Plus you have some international travel coming up...

Gosh so much is going on in my professional life right now. I’m about to leave for New York where I am being hosted by the Open Society Foundation. This will be my second trip to NYC as I previously visited in 2013 when I participated in an exhibition. This time I will be participating in the New York Times Portfolio Review. This event brings together selected photographers with top photo editors, publishers, video producers, gallery owners and curators. It is a brilliant opportunity to showcase my photography and connect with loads of talented creative people in one of the most exciting cities in the world.

Then you are off to Europe...

I fly directly to Switzerland where I will be taking up a three month residency in Geneva.

I have been selected as one of the artists taking part in the Pro Helvetia Residencies which support the visual arts, music, literature, theatre and dance. Selected artists from India, China, Russia and Africa will be participating which will make for an interesting experience.

How will you spend your time in Switzerland?

Whilst I’m there I will be focussing on my work for my solo exhibition as part of Sasol New Signature 2018. I’m looking forward to the solitude this residency presents - I want to concentrate on refining my pieces.

What can you tell us about your solo exhibition?

My installation - which is as yet untitled - is a very large work - being 7m x 5m and features life size cardboard cutouts - plus I’m including a audio element. You will have to come and experience it at the Pretoria Art Museum in late August.

What’s on your wish list whilst overseas?

When I’m in Switzerland I’m looking forward to attending the Basel Art Fair. These large international fairs have brilliant line-ups and a great buzz. I always learn something from my travels - especially when I get to meet and connect with other artists.

Will you get to take some time out?

Summertime in Europe is really fun - people are relaxed and looking to enjoy the nice weather - plus there are always so  many special events at galleries and museums. Festivals have become really popular,  with so many different topics showcased.  I am also especially keen to attend some music events.

What are your long-term plans?

I’m toying with the idea of pursuing my Masters in fine art - possibly at Rhodes University in 2019.