Events

Zanele Muholi: A Visual Odyssey of Art and Activism

August 17, 2023

1 min read

The ‘Zanele Muholi’ exhibition at Southern Guild will come to an end on August 17th, after captivating visitors since June 15th. Set against the backdrop of Cape Town, this avant-garde exhibition defies norms and transcends boundaries, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of those who experienced it.

An Immersive Experience

The exhibition is an immersive experience that invites viewers to engage with the poignant narrative. Amongst the many works on display are monumental bronze sculptures, representing Muholi’s most comprehensive display of new sculpture to date. These works of art stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to addressing pressing issues such as gender-based violence, LGBTQ+ rights, and female empowerment.

The ‘Somnyama Ngonyama’ Series

One of the exhibition’s many highlights is the ‘Somnyama Ngonyama’ series, featuring new photography that delves into the depths of Muholi’s self-expression. Through their camera, Muholi documents themes of self-identity, personal struggle, and social activism. At the heart of ‘Zanele Muholi’ lies an audacious challenge to the status quo, as Muholi’s self-portraiture disrupts the voyeuristic gaze often imposed on marginalized bodies.

A Retrospective Journey

As visitors traverse the exhibition, they experience a range of emotions, from the joy of sexual freedom to the anguish of gender-based violence and trauma. The retrospective nature of the exhibition juxtaposes earlier work with current creations, providing a deeper understanding of Muholi’s journey as an artist and visual activist.

Sparking Critical Conversations

The influence of ‘Zanele Muholi’ stretches beyond the confines of the gallery, sparking critical conversations around representation, inclusivity, and the transformative power of art. Muholi’s self-portraiture surpasses the limitations of traditional art forms, compelling viewers to confront societal conventions head-on.

The Last Opportunity

The exhibition’s final day is August 17th. For those who have yet to embark on this transformative journey, it is the last opportunity to witness the magic of ‘Zanele Muholi’ and engage with this extraordinary exhibition.

A Lasting Impact

The impact of Zanele Muholi’s work will undoubtedly reverberate long after the exhibition’s end. Their art has not only allowed viewers to embark on a visual odyssey but also inspired reflections on the power of art to foster change, challenge norms, and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience.

The Evolution of Energy: Cape Town’s Smart Meter Initiative

Cape Town is making exciting changes with its Smart Meter Initiative, set to start in April 2025. Old electricity meters in neighborhoods like Woodstock and Salt River will be replaced with new smart prepaid meters. These advanced meters promise to give accurate readings, reduce billing problems, and help residents manage their energy use better. The city also ensures safety during installations and offers support to lowincome households, making electricity more accessible for everyone. This project not only modernizes how energy is managed but also strengthens the bond between the city and its people.

The Debate Over Starlink’s Entry into South Africa: Technological Potential vs. Regulatory Hurdles

The entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, into South Africa is facing tough challenges due to local laws that require foreign companies to partner with local investors. Critics argue that these rules slow down internet access, especially in rural areas. Supporters, like former politician Tony Leon, believe that easing these regulations could boost technology and improve relations with the U.S. However, Starlink recently withdrew its application to operate in the country, raising concerns about how South Africa can attract foreign investment while addressing historical inequalities. This debate highlights the struggle between supporting local interests and embracing new technology for a better future.

Latest from Blog

south african rand political instability

The South African Rand’s Historic Plunge: A Reflection of Political and Economic Turmoil

In 2025, the South African Rand took a historic nosedive, reaching its lowest point ever against the euro and pound. Political chaos from a controversial national budget, along with new US tariffs, caused panic among investors, leading them to pull money out of the country. On April 9, the rand fell to R21.81/€ and above R25/£, creating a wave of uncertainty and rising inflation in South Africa. This crisis reflects not only economic struggles but also the deep political issues within the nation, urging everyone to unite for a better future.

South Africa’s VAT Controversy: A Battle for Economic Stability and Social Justice

South Africa is facing a heated debate over a proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15% to 16% by 2026. The government believes this hike is necessary to fund vital services like health and education but promises to help lowincome families with expanded social grants and zerorated food items. However, this plan has met fierce opposition from the Democratic Alliance party, which argues it will unfairly burden the poor. As tensions rise within the coalition government, this issue reflects deeper struggles for fairness and justice in a nation still healing from past inequalities. The outcome of this tax increase could change the way South Africa balances economic needs with social responsibility.

Envisioning Hope: The “And yet we imagine” Exhibition

The “And yet we imagine” exhibition at the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in Cape Town is a vibrant celebration of creativity and hope. Running until May 2, 2025, it showcases diverse art forms, from poetry to performance, all aimed at inspiring a sustainable future. Visitors can join workshops and discussions, sharing their own dreams for a better world. This exhibition calls on everyone to imagine together, highlighting the power of art to spark change and unite communities in facing our biggest challenges. It’s a beautiful reminder that, even in tough times, we can dream of a brighter tomorrow.

Controversy Surrounds New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Zulu Parade

The Zulu Parade at New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is causing a stir because many South Africans find its imagery offensive. Features like blackface and outdated stereotypes upset people who feel their rich culture is being disrespected. While the parade aims to celebrate African American heritage, it blurs the line between honoring and appropriating Zulu culture. This controversy highlights how important it is to understand and respect different traditions, reminding us to think carefully about how we represent others. Ultimately, it’s a call for more empathy and dialogue in our diverse world.

Navigating Cybersecurity: Lessons from the Cell C Data Breach

The Cell C data breach is a big wakeup call about how important cybersecurity is in our digital lives. It shows that companies need to teach their users how to protect their personal information and be clear about what’s happening when things go wrong. After the breach, Cell C stepped up by creating an Information Hub to help users understand cyber threats and encouraging them to sign up for Protective Registration to guard against fraud. This situation reminds us that staying safe online is not just about technology; it’s also about being smart and aware.

the ultimate mother city guide