‘Within her artistic practice, Grace Mokalapa has explored the spatial quality of geometric shapes, informed by her interests in astronomy and architecture. In this print, she layers trapezoid-shaped woodcut prints over each other. The true blue of each form is increasingly darkened, becoming almost black at the centre. This use of geometry and deepening shades creates an illusion of depth and movement. The experience of viewing the work simulates the sensation of walking into a tunnel, travelling from a place of light and moving inwards into the dark. The beauty of Mokalapa’s practice lies in her ability to utilise forms which are rudimentary and commonplace, to produce artworks which feel immersive, alien, and monumental – perhaps even infinite. Where does the tunnel end?’
– Khanya Mashabela

Mmabatho Grace Mokalapa was born in Soweto (1992). Mokalapa’s interest in science, astronomy and philosophy since childhood is evident in her work. Mokalapa earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Witwatersrand (2015) and later became a recipient of The Studio Bursary at Assemblage Studios funded by the African Arts Trust. She is currently working towards an architecture degree at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.