Bongiwe Phakathi

- In what way is ART a tool for activism?

Art shifts thinking, art demands questioning and rethinking social injustices. Art stimulates empathy and a desire to understand both the self and the other. Empathy is necessary when pushing and pulling for social justice.

- What gives you hope?

Finding the extraordinary in ordinary everyday life.

BIO

Bongiwe Phakathi works with photography, creating collages that are rehashed, re-imagined, multilayered, and adorned. She is inspired by the works of Andy Warhol, Michelle Gondry’s music video works for Daft Punk and the Chemical Brothers, and works by Matt Lipps and Sam Nhlengethwa. Common characteristics that are depicted in Bongiwe Phakathi’s work are the body, and the gaze — or rather the lack of gaze, notions of home, movement, colors, and shapes. Her works are often recollections of memories of internalized conflicts, and tensions. Her constructions of fictional realities explore dysfunctional relations, struggles, and celebrations in search of a greater sense of understanding. Bongiwe Phatakhi studied photography at Market Workshop and more recently at Through The Lens Collective in Johannesburg. ‘My art practice acts as my reminder to show up imperfectly, rather than not showing up at all, replacing self-doubt and judgment with curiosity.’

Instagram: @ok______yeye

This artwork is unframed and located in Johannesburg, SA. WILLAS contemporary will facilitate artwork release within 21 days after payment. Can be picked up by the buyer, or shipped at the buyer´s expense.