Absa L’Atelier Winner Kutlwano Monyai Unveils Debut Solo Exhibition in Johannesburg

Absa L’Atelier Winner Kutlwano Monyai Unveils Debut Solo Exhibition in Johannesburg. Visual artist Kutlwano Monyai has opened her debut solo exhibition, Dakalo – The Ultimate Gift, at Gallery Momo in Johannesburg, marking her first solo showcase since being named a 2024 Absa L’Atelier Art ambassador.

Presented in partnership with Gallery Momo, Absa and Sanava, the exhibition officially opened on 17 July 2026 and runs from 18 July to 29 August 2026 at the Rosebank gallery.

The exhibition explores themes of grief, healing and joy through a collection of works created using polyethylene, concrete, wood and crocheted materials. According to Monyai, the exhibition examines how experiences of loss, resilience and community shape both individual and shared identities.

The title, Dakalo, is derived from the Tshivenda word for “joy” or “happiness”. Rather than presenting joy as a final destination, the exhibition reflects on it as an ongoing process of finding gratitude, hope and connection despite difficult experiences.

Speaking at the exhibition opening, Monyai said she was encouraged to see visitors connect with the work. She explained that the exhibition is rooted in experiences of grief, healing and joy, viewed through the perspective of home and community.

Absa Group Senior Art and Museum Curator Dr Paul Bayliss said the exhibition invites audiences to consider grief not only as an experience of loss but also as a pathway to empathy, healing and renewal. He added that Monyai transforms everyday materials into sculptural works that explore memory, community and interconnectedness.

Dr Bayliss also said the Absa L’Atelier Art programme continues to support emerging artists by creating opportunities for artistic development, professional growth and greater visibility.

Born in 1996, Monyai is an artist, scholar and independent curator based in Johannesburg. She recently completed a postgraduate diploma in Fine and Applied Arts at the Tshwane University of Technology and has participated in exhibitions at the Pretoria Art Museum, Bag Factory Artists’ Studios, Turbine Art Fair and other collaborative projects.

Now celebrating four decades, the Absa L’Atelier Art programme continues to provide mentorship, exhibition opportunities, residencies and professional development to emerging African artists, supporting their growth and expanding their visibility both locally and internationally.