Majak Bredell
Majak Bredell was born in Kroonstad, South Africa, in 1945. After matriculating from The Kroonstad Technical College in Art and Design in 1962, she pursued further studies at The Johannesburg Art School from 1963 to 1965. Following her education, Bredell began her professional career as a Graphic Designer and Fashion Illustrator in Johannesburg until 1977.
In 1967, she married and subsequently welcomed two children into the world, in 1968 and 1971 respectively. During this time, she also pursued additional studies in Dress Design at The Madeleine Minich D'Erney Academy in Johannesburg in 1972.
In 1977, Bredell's focus shifted towards painting after a trip to Europe and America. She honed her skills studying the figure and painting at The George Boys Studio in South Africa, leading to her first group exhibition at The George Boys Studio in 1978. Throughout the 1980s, Bredell exhibited extensively in solo and group shows, including representing South Africa at "Interart'81" in New York.
In 1984, she began printmaking at The National Academy Printmaking Workshop in New York, expanding her artistic repertoire. Bredell's artistic journey continued as she balanced teaching at Pratt Institute and working as a Graphic Designer for Pharmaceutical Advertising in 1987.
Bredell's commitment to her craft remained unwavering as she explored various mediums and themes throughout the following decades. Notably, she founded the Southern Cross Press in 1993, publishing her bilingual poetry and accompanying artwork. Her artistic endeavors led to numerous exhibitions both in South Africa and abroad, showcasing her evolving style and subject matter.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Bredell engaged in activism, addressing social and cultural issues through her art. Notably, she embarked on projects like "Post-Christian Alter Images" and "Roll Call," which delved into themes of religion, human rights, and societal constructs.
In the later years of her career, Bredell returned to her homeland, South Africa, where she continued to create and exhibit her work. Her contributions to the art world include not only her visual art but also her self-published books and prayer books, which reflect her multifaceted talents and deep engagement with her cultural and artistic heritage.
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