Protest

A collection of slogans have accumulated on my tongue after documenting a host of public protests over the past few years. South Africa’s working class particularly has been at the frontlines of these challenges to authorities. They have demanded justice, service delivery, promises to not be broken. However, it seems that there is an unhealthy sense of nationalism that is currently sweeping South Africa, particularly with the Soccer World Cup approaching, and one feels that this nationalistic pride sometimes leads to self-censorship. I am also appalled that very often it is only a certain sector of the South African public that protests. This working class ‘strugglistas’ don’t often get the support from other South Africans, particularly the more fortunate middle class. So it seems that the sense of protest faces challenges via censorship and complacency. I want to create an installation piece with my photos and sound while instigating exhibition viewers to protest via electronic media and hand-painted posters bearing protest slogans. This protest process will be documented.

The realism of photojournalism speaks to me and the photos that I’ve submitted are the start of what is still to come in this ongoing project. The submitted photos are not necessarily photographically outstanding. Admittedly, this is not my strongest or most creative work. This installation is more about the overall concept and not only the visual representation.

The photos aim to reflect a street reality. The simplicity of the documentation appeals to me and the focus is more on the social message. It also speaks of the archival process, which I value, whether through journalistic writing, photos or video. These photos of ordinary citizens in protest reflect the importance that I place on documenting these voices. I’m inspired by street photography as it’s a simple documentary process that speaks of a time and place. With "Protest", the image is a bit more complex as it places that simplicity in a context which aims to challenge. I want to use these images in my installation to incite ordinary citizens to protest about what they feel is important to them now. This installation aims to bring into the public space the voices that we need for change in South African public life.