The Art of Khehla Chepape Magkato

by

Ali Jamal

Khehla Chepape Magkato served as the 2018 artist in residence at Zygote Press in Cleveland, just one of his esteemed honors. While in the US, he gave a public lecture to students at the Oberlin College in Ohio on Reimagining the African Contemporaneity of Art.

Insisting on being called Chepape (Cheh-Pa-Pee), he gave such insight on the struggles in his life and his mission to change the world.  Chepape certainly impressed us with a in-depth demonstration of his art style (which lasted until about 2am at Zygote Press) and also stating how he has and wants to continue to build libraries in South Africa. 

He often said things like, "when the time comes" and "when I'm famous".  The latter may sound a bit arrogant or even laughable, but seriously, isn't that kind of courage and self-determination needed in this day and age?  Regardless, I can tell you he was not arrogant in the least bit.  I personally purchased two of his pieces and he was very humbled and thankful.  He even invited me to visit him in South Africa!  (He was not joking)

Chepape believes in himself, and just as importantly, believes that art can and will continue to break down barriers, create a platform for success and healing, and ultimately change the world.

Shout out to Sista Etan Byansi for providing an opportunity to have dinner with Chepape, which eventually led to the studio demonstration and brief interview.

Khehla Chepape Magkato
​at Zygote Press

Find more of Chepape's art here ​https://www.artsy.net/artist/khehla-chepape-makgato and find him on Instagram at ChepapetheGreat - how apropos...