New at Norval Foundation: ‘Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow’ by Githan Coopoo

Norval Foundation’s newest exhibition, Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow, honours the legacy of South African artist Githan Coopoo (1994–2025), whose singular voice redefined the possibilities of clay in contemporary art. The exhibition is set to open on 15 October 2025, and showcases Coopoo’s innovative use of the clay medium. Here’s everything you need to know.

About Githan Coopoo and Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow

A self-taught sculptor, Coopoo transformed clay into a medium of adornment, critique, and storytelling. His innovative practice blurred the boundaries between craft and fine art, shaping fragile material into both intimate jewellery and commanding sculptural forms. His work carried tenderness, humour, and defiance, revealing the strength in vulnerability and the beauty in fragility.

Drawing inspiration from mythology, ancient civilisations, and his queer, South African and diasporic heritage, Coopoo created works that resonated with both personal and universal meaning. Playful yet profound, his sculptures invite us to consider how bodies and spaces hold memory, desire, and history, while questioning value, permanence, and identity.

With Tears Now But Heaven Tomorrow, Norval Foundation celebrates Coopoo’s enduring contribution to contemporary South African art. His art remains a testament to the power of ornament as poetry, and to the way vulnerability can transform into strength.

“It is a privilege to be able to showcase the work of the late Githan Coopoo; a master of combining seemingly playful works with cutting wit and searing commentary,” says Caroline Greyling, Norval Foundation Museum Director. “Githan’s work encourages us to look beyond our first impressions, and examine notions of self and identity through a new lens. The exuberant use of colour in his works, along with the imbued meaning, is sure to offer viewers a delightful introduction to his career and legacy.”

How to Visit the Exhibition

The exhibition is set to open on 15 October 2025, with tickets to the opening event available on Webtickets.

Cost: Day Pass – R200pp for African Nationals | R300pp for Internationals | R100pp for young adults aged 18 to 24 years | Kids under 18 enter free. Book via Webtickets