South African Art Meets Audio: Manthe Ribane Collaborates with Pantheone
South African artist Manthe Ribane has joined forces with Pantheone Audio in a collaboration merging design and craftsmanship into a celebration of South African culture and creativity. The result is a unique line of the sculptural, state-of- the-art speakers for which the Australian audio brand is best known.
The collaboration is intended to bring South African design to the world. ‘This partnership signifies a new era for South African design, where traditional elements and modern aesthetics converge,’ says Manthe. ‘It shows that South African designers can create world-class pieces that resonate both locally and globally.’
Combining Manthe Ribane’s artistic vision with Pantheone’s innovative craftsmanship, the speakers go beyond functionality to become expressive artworks that capture the vibrant spirit of South African culture. The sleek lines and curves of the speakers – reminiscent of dancers – tell stories of creativity and cultural fusion. ‘Our partnership was inspired by a mutual admiration for each other’s work, and a shared vision to celebrate and elevate South African design,’ Manthe adds. ‘I’ve always been about pushing boundaries and creating pieces that tell a story, and this collaboration allows us to merge our creative strengths and cultural narratives.’
Pantheone Audio echoes this sentiment: ‘For us, this partnership is a step towards fostering greater recognition and appreciation for South African design on the international stage. It underscores the importance of collaboration in amplifying our voices and creating designs that are not only beautiful, but also deeply meaningful. We believe this partnership will inspire other designers to explore and celebrate.’
A fusion of art, culture, and innovation defines this partnership, and has resulted in beautiful, functional pieces that showcase South African design globally. As it’s seen and heard, may it inspire future collaborations celebrating the richness of creativity and diversity.
Text by Thando Mbonani