“Hillbrow to Soweto, uptown Rosebank to downtown Jozi, the people of this city is my community.”
— Wanda Lephoto
Although we may come from different backgrounds, opinions, and ideologies, we are united in our desire to advance culture. Together, we will lay the foundation for what comes next, grounded in the communities that made us and those who came before us. In order to create a space that proudly displays this collective force, Nike is leading with local heroes and acts as part of the 40th anniversary celebration of the famous AF1.
Nike is creating a sense of community by collaborating with chosen community heroes DBN Gogo, Wanda Lephoto and Anthony Bila to bring Gallery On 4th in Melville to life. From Friday, 23 September through Sunday, 25 September visitors can see the combined strength of a force that is rooted in community at the gallery. In addition to featuring artwork by local heroes, the weekend-long exhibition also includes pieces by up-and-coming artists who, along with more established artists, explore what it means to “Be True” in South Africa.
“As much as creativity saved me, community made me. That’s why I feel an obligation to be an uncle, a friend and a collaborator to those I see coming next.”
— Anthony Bila
Through the show, visitors are reminded that while every one of us is unique on our own, when we come together, we are so much more. Thus, using the voices of the three catalysts who were chosen, guests have the chance to go deeper into their narratives, further introducing everyone to the up-and-coming talent mentees who are displayed at the gallery.
All three heroes of the community — Anthony Bila, DBN Gogo, and Wanda Lephoto — are acquainted with the idea of working together to enhance community. Each community hero’s journey begins in the locations that helped shape them, paying homage to community shelters that continue to foster the spirit of belief among our youth by leveraging the voices of creative catalysts in an honest way. The idea that where their selected mentees are now might help them tell their own experiences in a way that is distinctive and inspired by their immediate surroundings and shared community is further emphasised.
“This is the place where I first touched the decks. Now I am here to give the next in line the same opportunities I had.”
— DBN Gogo
This evening, which kicks off the weekend long exhibition, serves as a gentle reminder that “a win for one, is a win for all” and that, thanks to the support of communal Joint FORCE, community shelters of the future are further being redefined as well as what community looks like.
Join forces with Nike at Gallery On 4th in Melville.
