Colbert Mashile: a journey home to the heart of art

‍Colbert Mashile: a journey home to the heart of art 

‍Thuli Mlambo-James

Colbert Mashile's life and work epitomise a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression rooted in cultural heritage. His path to becoming a collected and widely recognised artist is as intricate and layered as the themes he explores in his art. 

Mashile was born in Bushbuckridge, a village in Mpumalanga, South Africa, known for its rich natural landscapes, such as the Kruger National Park. His upbringing in Bushbuckridge played a crucial role in shaping his artistic vision. Growing up in a village that lacks modern amenities like electricity, he was deeply influenced by oral storytelling traditions. His mother’s vivid stories, although scary at times, and often left unfinished, spurred his imagination and instilled in him a love for narrative and visual expression. This formative environment, rich with cultural rituals and communal life, laid the foundation for his artistic interests.

The cultural diversity of Bushbuckridge, where different ethnic groups such as the Shangaan and Mapulana coexisted and intermingled, also influenced Mashile's worldview. His Mapulana heritage, particularly the initiation ceremonies overseen by his grandfather, a chief and cultural custodian, left an indelible mark on him. These initiation rites, which included rigorous training, and isolation from one’s family, taught him resilience, self-sufficiency, and a deep connection to nature, all of which permeate Mashile’s art.

‍Artistic development and education

Mashile's journey into the world of art was serendipitous. While studying Public Administration at Pretoria Technicon Training College, his curiosity was piqued by the art displayed in gallery windows. This led him to the Johannesburg Art Foundation, where he was introduced to formal art education. Despite the challenges of living in a shack at the time in Johannesburg and studying by candlelight, his determination and talent shone through. His encounter with Professor Allen Crump from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) was a turning point. Recognising Mashile's potential, Crump facilitated his transition to studying Fine Art at Wits, where Mashile flourished. 

At Wits, Mashile's exposure to diverse perspectives and mentors like Clive van den Berg encouraged him to delve deeper into his identity and experiences. This period was pivotal in helping him find his unique artistic language, characterised by a blend of personal narrative and broader cultural commentary.

‍Symbolism and imagery in Mashile’s art

One of the defining features of Mashile’s work is his use of animal symbolism. When asked about the recurring animal characters in his artworks, he explains: 

Animals always played a special role in my work. I used them as human characters to depict my storyline. In African folklore, animals represent human traits. For example, a goat might take a human form because it is used for sacrificial reasons in traditional ceremonies, while a baboon represents a spiteful and treacherous figure, reflecting human failures in being humane.

Mashile’s art is also rich in symbols and icons that reveal truths about the land and its people. The symbolism in his art comes from the hidden message in songs, stories, and ceremonies. These are proverbs or idioms that carry significance for those who understand them.

‍Influence of natural and mystical elements

Since moving back to rural Mpumalanga, Mashile’s work has been infused with natural and mystical elements. He attributes this to the environment’s profound impact on his artistic vision and process: 'The environment formulates one’s worldview. Growing up in a rural area with no electricity, the nights were very dark, and storytelling was a daily routine. The significance of all the stories told by my mother came to the fore because they equate the environment to what I was taught to believe,'  he explains.

The natural landscapes and wildlife of Mpumalanga have also had an important influence on Mashile’s artistic vision. 'The landscape is part of my environment,’ he continues. ‘The mountains, the trees, the people, and the colour of the soil resonate deeply in my understanding of the world, which exists in me.’

His art makes up a tapestry of hidden symbols and icons, revealing deeper truths about the land and its people, and often incorporates the natural landscapes and wildlife of rural Mpumalanga. This unique blend of cultural storytelling and natural elements creates a compelling narrative that captivates viewers and invites us into a world where the mystical and the everyday coexist, embodying the universal themes and psychological archetypes that resonate within his African identity.

‍The dichotomy of nature and serenity

A notable aspect of Mashile’s art is the tension between invasive nature and serenity. This dichotomy represents the complexity of human existence and the natural world. Mashile’s art has been praised for its ability to tap into universal psychological archetypes while maintaining a distinct African identity. He incorporates universal themes in his work by delving into hidden messages and underlying truths. 'I’ve always delved into the hidden message, the underworld of knowledge that exists,’ he explains. ‘I manage to tap into that and try to grasp the essence of some underlying truth, which is hard to describe but akin to a dream-like state where I can envisage an underworld.’

‍Hlogo-Pedi (2019) features an abstract, central form resembling a totemic or anthropomorphic structure. The term 'Hlogo-Pedi' translates to 'two heads' or 'double-headed' in the Sepedi language, a reflection of duality and complex symbolism. The imagery draws from male initiation songs, rich with hidden messages that initiates are forbidden to discuss due to the secrecy of the rituals. This painting plays on the titles of the songs sung at initiation schools, which are performed during specific scenarios, such as moments of punishment or the undertaking of significant tasks. The dual-headed figure thus embodies the layered meanings and profound cultural heritage embedded in these traditional songs, offering a visual representation of the rich oral traditions and mysteries of initiation rituals.

‍Mahlologadi (2004) translates to 'widow' in the Sepedi language. The title also refers to specific songs that were sung at the initiation school, which frequently relate to specific situations or teachings. The secrecy and symbolic language used in these rites of passage are mirrored in Mashile's artistic practice, where he employs allegory and metaphor to convey deeper meanings. His artwork serves as a visual representation of the cultural narratives and personal experiences he encountered during his initiation, encapsulating the impact these rituals have had on his life and art.

Nonyana tse tshela (2006) translating to 'six birds,' draws on rich cultural symbolism and personal experiences. The artwork can be seen as a reflection of his heritage, exploring themes of communication. It is a compelling artwork that encapsulates Mashile’s ability to blend cultural narratives with striking visual elements.

‍Themes and artistic evolution

Mashile's work initially focused on the psychological impact of traditional circumcision and initiation rituals. Over time, his themes have expanded to include explorations of home, language, the natural landscape, and the intersection of human and animal worlds. His art, known for its earthy colours, precise craftsmanship, and symbolic richness, often features mystical figures and organic shapes. These elements create a dialogue between the physical and spiritual realms, reflecting the complexities of African identity and universal human experiences.

Animals, particularly those from his childhood such as goats and baboons, recur in his work, each imbued with symbolic resonance. Goats (commonly eaten) and baboons (closer in resemblance to humans) represent different aspects of existence and survival. Mashile's use of props like a miner's hat symbolise masculinity and its challenges, adding layers of personal and communal significance to his compositions.

‍Returning to his roots

His recent decision to move his studio back to rural Mpumalanga after living in Johannesburg for over fifteen years marks a significant chapter in his career. This move emphasises a return to his roots and a deeper immersion in the natural and cultural landscape that has always influenced his work. 

In the countryside, he has found a renewed connection to his heritage and a space to reflect and create. This return to nature has infused his recent work with a sense of mysticism and a deeper agreement with the natural elements surrounding him. In his art there is a palpable tension between invasive nature and serenity, reflecting his ongoing dialogue with his environment and heritage.

This dichotomy is both compelling and engaging, inviting viewers to explore the intricate balance between tradition and modernity, the personal and the universal.

Mashile's work continues to evolve, offering insights into the human condition. His journey from the rural landscapes of Bushbuckridge to the bustling city of Johannesburg and back to Mpumalanga is a testament to his enduring connection to his roots and his relentless pursuit of artistic expression. 

Cover artwork: Colbert Mashile, Nonyana tse tshela, 2006. Oil on canvas, 80 x 84 cm (unframed).