'rebirth (and)

Dimensions

36,5 × 26,8cm

Year

2023

 ‘Umthi womnombo’ is a body of work which explores the deep psychological currents and essence of culture and identity. It is a tribute to women and the memory of a better world. The women in the work are portraits of women in my community that I photograph, as a way to honour my mother, she was a single and powerful woman who passed away in 2009. The work is also inspired by my own journey, ancestral lineage, and experiences in my continued journey of self discovery. Losing my mother at a young age and growing up both in the city and the rural areas is the spectrum from which I channel my visual stories. I use different symbols borrowed from cultural, natural, or indigenous iconographies to create a visual tapestry, weaving of both these worlds.

Maize/corn is a staple food source in South Africa and is predominantly seen in my work as a symbol of wealth, vitality, life, and heritage. In combining the maize cob with the male suit and tie a western dress code, I am questioning the influence and dominance of western culture in relation to my cultural identity.