Ep 1. Johannesburg

Art21: Art in the Twenty-First Century is a documentary series produced by the PBS network that focuses on contemporary art and the artists who create it. Season 9, episode 1 is titled Johannesburg and explores the artistic and cultural scene in South Africa's largest city.

The episode begins with a look at the city's history, particularly the apartheid era that ended in 1994. Many of the artists featured in the episode were born during this time and have had to navigate the aftermath of segregation and inequality. Despite these challenges, they have found ways to use art as a means of expressing themselves and engaging with their community.

One of the first artists introduced is Robin Rhode, who creates large-scale murals and sculptures using everyday materials like chalk and charcoal. He often incorporates street performers and passersby into his pieces, blurring the lines between art and everyday life. His work is political and often reflects the struggles faced by black South Africans.

Next, the episode focuses on Kemang Wa Lehulere, who creates installations and performances that investigate South Africa's past and present. He often uses found objects to create his work, which serves as a metaphor for the country's ongoing struggles with identity and representation. His pieces are deeply personal and often draw on his own experiences and memories.

The episode also features the work of Nicholas Hlobo, who creates sculptures and installations that explore themes of masculinity and identity. His pieces often incorporate materials like rubber, leather, and ribbon, which he twists and weaves into complex forms. His work is both beautiful and confronting, challenging viewers to rethink traditional notions of gender and sexuality.

Another artist featured is Zanele Muholi, who uses photography to document the experiences of black, queer South Africans. Her portraits are striking and intimate, often capturing her subjects in moments of vulnerability and strength. Her work is an important reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by minority communities in South Africa and around the world.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to a range of other artists working in Johannesburg, all of whom are pushing boundaries and exploring new forms of expression. Despite the city's challenges, these artists are finding ways to create work that is both personal and universal, reflecting the complex realities of life in South Africa today.

Overall, Art21: Art in the Twenty-First Century season 9 episode 1 offers a compelling look at the artistic and cultural scene in Johannesburg. Through interviews with the artists themselves and stunning footage of their work, viewers are given a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse world of contemporary South African art.