Ikhono LaseNatali called us into understanding the politics of representation and what it means to transform and re-write art. We were able to rediscover and witness the beauty in black personhood; the kind of beauty that is often not depicted in the media and galleries. At its core the exhibition depicts the power of collectivism and visibility on black walls.

Sir Muholi has written history and extended what it means to be a visual activist, not only in theory but in action and through the power of art, giving young artists a voice in spaces where their art can be welcomed and remembered in the collective consciousness. Through the exhibition Muholi has challenged how systems are constructed by giving artists a platform and giving them the tools to express and grow themselves.

The exhibition celebrates 25 years of Democracy and what better way to celebrate than to empower the youth and write what has not been written; bringing creative freedom and messages into place.

The interconnection between Somnyama Ngonyama and Ikhono LaseNatal is that Muholi used props in their immediate surroundings; similarly the artists used various mediums from charcoal, to beadwork and other forms of multimedia to express different aspects of identity. Both collections speak to fearlessly being present in a space. Sir Muholi’s work is a brave statement of what it means to use your voice beyond people’s expectations. Sir Muholi has allowed young artists to roar ; by posing the question of identity through our thoughts, memories, beliefs, discoveries, adaptation, innovation, spirituality and transformation.