The patterned incisions that have come to define Madoda Fani’s work become an all-encompassing ‘skin’ in his latest collection of 12 hand-coiled works for his current show, titled iQweqwe. The show’s isiXhosa title can be translated as “crust” but here refers to insect exoskeletons.

The iQweqwe series features both functional and sculptural works in which Fani explores unusual new forms. Their contours are articulated by concentric lines carved into the clay, finished with detailed markings and studded protrusions, whose repetition lends the surfaces a mesmerising rhythm.

The illusion of movement in Fani’s iQweqwe collection becomes a reality in a custom-designed car wrap the artist created for BMW. He adapted his signature incised patterns into line drawings that have been applied to the body of a BMW X7 in a two-layered wrap. The car has an iridescent sheen reminiscent of an insect carapace, displaying subtle changes of colour as it moves through space. The element of mobility brings a broader audience for the artist.

“It’s exciting to see my work take on a different form and to collaborate with such a recognised brand like BMW,” says Fani. “The fact that the car is going to be driven around Cape Town means that people who are not familiar with my ceramics will now be able to see my work.”

iQweqwe is on display at Southern Guild until 17 September 2021.

View the collection here.

Photography and film production by Greg Beadle | Filming + editing by Lloyd Metcalfe | Car wrap by Black Widow