Pop-up Exhibition and Artist Talk with Sophie Mahlangu

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Join us as we welcome Sophie Mahlangu for a pop-up exhibition and talk.

South African artist Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu gained international recognition for her exceptional beadwork, winning the 2020 Innibos National Craft Awards in the Beading Category. Her winning entry, a pair of intricately beaded bicycles, showcased her originality and skill, inspired by her mother’s craftsmanship. Nguni beadwork is a vibrant form of communication among Zulu and Ndebele peoples, evolving from traditional materials like bone and shells to colorful plastic beads. Renowned Ndebele beadworks express intricate societal themes through their shapes and patterns.

Based in Gamorwa, Mpumalanga, Mahlangu sells her beadwork through Nomhlekhabo Craft Africa, catering to both local ceremonial needs and tourist interests. She advocates for women’s empowerment through craft and educates others in traditional Ndebele arts alongside Dr. Esther Mahlangu.

Mahlangu emphasizes the importance of perseverance and originality, both in her own work and in mentoring her children and students. Through her efforts, she continues to inspire and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Southern African beadwork.

Free and open to all! No registration required. Pop-up exhibition open through July 26th in the Hoffert Learning Center.

Africa Meets Africa: Ndebele Women Designing Identity

A Painting and Pedagogy Workshop

July 16, 2026, 1PM-4PM, Visual Arts Building

Join South African art educator Helene Smuts and artist Sophie Mahlangu for a painting workshop that explores the

A woman dressed professionally in a red blouse and black jacket

mathematical underpinnings of Ndebele design.
Space is limited, so register today!

These events are made possible by partnerships with The Africa Center, the International Folk Art Market, the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, the College of Liberal Arts, and CSU’s Art History area.

Sophie Mahlangu

Helene Smuts

Support for the museum’s exhibitions and programming is generously provided by Colorado Creative Industries, the City of Fort Collins Fort Fund, the FUNd Endowment at CSU and the Lilla B. Morgan Memorial Endowment.