South African contemporary art is taking center stage in New Orleans this spring with the acclaimed exhibition “If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future.” Curated by Laurie Ann Farrell, this showcase from the Nando’s art collection—one of the largest of its kind—runs at the Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane University until June 20, 2025.
A Celebration of African Creativity
Bringing together a diverse range of masterworks, the exhibition highlights Southern African artists working across portraiture, landscape, cityscapes, and abstraction. Featured names include renowned photographer Zanele Muholi, celebrated sculptor William Kentridge, and Portia Zvavahera, a rising star recently showcased at the Venice Biennale.
Opening Celebration & Public Programming
Due to Carnival Season, the official opening reception takes place on March 21, featuring a special jazz performance by Courtney Bryan, Alfred Jordan, and Max Moran. The museum is also hosting a panel on Contemporary African Art in partnership with the New Orleans Book Fest on March 29.
A Global Stage for Local Talent
Mirna Wessels, CEO of The Spier Arts Trust, emphasizes the significance of the exhibition: “This show is an incredible opportunity for artists in our collection to be presented in the U.S. for the first time. It introduces South African contemporary society to new audiences while fostering cultural exchange.”
Nando’s, known for its PERi-PERi chicken and commitment to African creativity, has long championed Southern African artists. “Celebrating original talent from our home in South Africa is at the heart of our values,” says Jessica Wheeler, Marketing Director of Nando’s South Africa.
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
The collection, built over two decades, was initiated by the late philanthropist Dick Enthoven. Farrell, a respected curator with extensive experience elevating African art in the U.S., describes the exhibition as a journey through “humanity, love, loss, and hope for a better future.”
Art Work Left To Right: Patrick Bongoy “Sapped II”, Anastasia Pather “The Camouflager”, tephen Hobbs “If You Look Hard Enough”
Art Work Left To Right: Diana Hyslop “Leave Everything You Know Behind You”, Sam Nhlengethwa “Construction Workers”, Tamlin Blake “Tied by Time”
Following its debut at the African American Museum in Dallas and a run at the African Diaspora Art Museum of Atlanta, the exhibition’s New Orleans stop is another milestone in showcasing African art on a global platform.
Art Work Left To Right: Diana Hyslop “Leave Everything You Know Behind You”,
Admission to the Newcomb Art Museum is free, inviting the public to engage with this powerful collection firsthand.
