Portraits of Belonging: A Diasporic Dialogue on Memory, Sport & Art
Join us for an unforgettable evening of conversation, reflection, and cultural resonance at Portraits of Belonging: A Diasporic Dialogue on Memory, Sport & Art. This special event brings together two visionary forces whose work transcends disciplines and borders—uniting art, heritage, and the enduring power of memory.
At the heart of this dialogue is Esohe Galbreath, a cultural strategist and heritage curator whose work in Atlanta and beyond has created vital spaces for Black artists to thrive. In conversation with her is Nelson Makamo, the internationally acclaimed South African visual artist whose evocative portraits of Black youth have graced galleries and global stages alike—including the Premier League Trophy.
Together, they will explore how art becomes a vessel for belonging, how memory shapes legacy, and how cultural stewardship can transform both institutions and imaginations. This is more than a conversation—it is a call to witness, to remember, and to reimagine.
✨ Expect an evening of deep insight, powerful storytelling, and shared vision.
🎨 Experience the intersection of sport, art, and diasporic identity.
💬 Reflect on who gets remembered—and how we shape the stories of tomorrow.
Special thanks to our partners:
Silverstone International (host of Nelson Makamo)
ADAMA (venue and logistics)
Axle Impact Studio (experience design)
Camille Love (beloved former Executive Director, Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs)
ABOUT NELSON
My art is a tribute to the voiceless, a testament to the resilience of the children of Africa, and an exploration of the human spirit. I am Nelson Makamo, an artist hailing from Johannesburg, and my work is an unapologetic celebration of the rich tapestry of life found on the African continent.
For years, I have been on a journey to capture the essence of the reality of African people, using an array of expressive mediums including acrylic, oil paint, watercolor, and charcoal. Through candid portraiture, I seek to create an intimate connection with the viewer, inviting them to step into the world of these rich souls who are often overlooked.
My artistic evolution was marked by a three-year study of printmaking at the Artist Proof Studios in Johannesburg. This foundation allowed me to experiment with various materials, ultimately leading to the discovery of my signature medium, charcoal. Within my creative process I allow
the spontaneity of creativity to guide my hand. My influences are diverse, drawing inspiration from the likes of contemporary artist Dumile Feni, who's legacy endures to this day.
My artistic journey has not been confined to one corner of the world. My globally renowned collections have graced the galleries of South Africa, the United States, France, Italy, the Netherlands, England, and Scotland. They have found a home in prestigious public and private collections worldwide, resonating with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
I am proud to be part of a global artistic community, using my craft to uplift the voices of the marginalized and remind us all of the timeless power of art to transcend boundaries and speak to the human experience.