The "Amakhosazana Exhibition" is a tribute to a profound legacy of creativity spanning four generations. Starting with Zikhona Mgoqi's great-grandmother, who crafted clothes from paper by hand, her work embodied resilience and resourcefulness. Without a sewing machine, she stitched garments for schoolchildren and festive occasions, laying the foundation for a tradition of innovation. Her grandmother carried this torch forward, sewing her own clothing and performing alterations with a hand-operated sewing machine, showcasing her meticulous craftsmanship.
Zikhona Mgoqi's mother elevated this legacy with her boutique, where she creatively combined hand-dyed fabrics with leather strips, blending textures to craft unique, bold designs. Inspired by this rich heritage, Zikhona expanded the vision by establishing her own boutique and later a pattern and sewing school, merging tradition with modern techniques.
This exhibition celebrates this journey through an exquisite collection of ball gowns adorned with intricate beadwork. Each gown represents its wearer, telling their story through fabric and beads. From hand-stitched patterns to modern techniques, every gown is a work of art, reflecting the evolution of a family deeply rooted in fashion. This showcase honors the past while embracing the future, celebrating the enduring spirit of design passed down through generations.
To learn more and book a ticket for the opening of the "Amakhosazana Exhibition," please visit the exhibition page: https://tickets.mbaf.co.za/en/events/8/bead-and-fabric-expressions-exhibition
Artist Biography
Zikhona Sistah Roots Mgoqi, a seasoned fashion designer, she trained at the Hope Factory and launched Roots Creations thereafter. In 2015, Zikhona expanded her impact by training others and later opened her own fashion school. Zikhona's passion for education extends to sewing programmes and participating in numerous fashion exhibitions. In 2019, she was funded by the Mandela Bay Development Agency to facilitate a six-month Creativity Cultivation workshop for youth aged 18-25. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Arts and Culture selected her work for export to Johannesburg. In 2023, she participated in the Embo Jewels Beauty Pageant and led a fashion programme at the Mendi Art Centre.
In 2024, the Ray Mhlaba Centre enlisted her to design and lead a three-month fashion and beading programme for their students. Her fashion school continues to thrive, with graduates pursuing professional careers. She also gives back by teaching beadwork to disabled members of her community for free. Through Roots Creations, Zikhona beautifully merges her love for beadwork and clothing design, continuing to influence the world of African fashion.
Credits
- Daily during the Festival 09:00 to 17:00
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Daily entry to the exhibitions is free. The scheduled walkabouts have a minimal cost and booking is essential.