xolelwa malinga

Xolelwa Malinga is currently working on an ongoing collection that continues her exploration of identity, memory, and the evolving narratives of African womanhood. Through this new body of work, she experiments with form, texture, and symbolism to expand on themes first introduced in her earlier pieces, while allowing space for new stories to emerge naturally over time. The collection remains in progress — a living, growing reflection of her artistic journey.

The Colour Of Her was Xolelwa Malinga’s first collection of works and marked the beginning of her artistic journey. It played a key role in her first solo exhibition at Alliance Française Eswatini in 2024 and was the first style she experimented with.

The collection was inspired by Malinga’s desire to celebrate the unapologetic freedom and confidence of Black women. Growing up, she often saw Black women depicted through limiting and stereotypical lenses, and she wanted to create a space where their narratives are empowering and authentic. Each woman featured in the collection was a Swazi muse, chosen for her unique figure and presence — together reflecting the diverse forms of beauty and strength that define womanhood.

That exhibition centered on the idea that Black women are not defined by others’ perceptions, but by their own sense of agency and self-love.

The Colour Of Her speaks directly to Malinga’s broader mission as an artist — to challenge societal norms, reclaim narratives, and provide a platform for underrepresented voices, particularly those of women of color. The exhibition stands as a visual declaration that Black women’s beauty and strength deserve to be celebrated on their own terms, without apology.