PRESERVING CAPE HERITAGE AND CULTURE THROUGH EXPLORING VISUAL ARTS AND EDUCATION
About Artist
PHOTOGRAPHER, YASSER BOOLEY
EMPOWERING MARGINALIZED ARTISTS BY PROVIDING PRACTICAL SUPPORT TO SHOWCASE THEIR ARTWORK
Fascinated by the ability of photography to represent his own perspective on people and events, he discovered a method to document his personal progress and maturation through capturing moments. While gaining experience as a freelancer in the production field, Yasser continued to immerse in photography. He held roles as a camera assistant, sound technician, and production assistant for multiple short films and documentaries. His debut publication was a cover article for Design Indaba in 2001, but it was not until two years later when he was employed as a stringer for the Mail & Guardian in the Western Cape that he began to identify as a 'photographer'. It was at that point that he began participating in group shows. He is known for his work in documenting and promoting Cape Town’s diverse cultural heritage, particularly in the areas of District 6 and Bo-Kaap.
Booley has been involved in various projects aimed at preserving the history and identity of these communities and advocating for social justice and inclusion. With a strong passion for storytelling, he has independently published two online photo magazines and several limited edition physical photo books. He has consistently preferred to express his perspective based on the circumstances he is in, rather than using a predetermined, goal-driven strategy. Over time, his documentary approach has evolved to focus more on formalizing his subject through environmental portraiture, with less emphasis on the notorious 45 degree photos.
As an artist, he believes that it is the essence of being human that drives his creative instincts. Booley has contributed to publications and exhibitions that explore themes of identity, memory and belonging in South Africa. His work reflects a deep engagement with the complexities of South Africa’s history and contemporary social issues. His work is often regarded as high quality and significant within the context of South African photography and cultural documentation. Reflecting a deep engagement with the complexities of South Africa’s history and contemporary social issues, Booley’s photography captures the essence of Cape Town’s diverse communities, street culture and heritage, showcasing a deep understanding and appreciation for the people and places he photographs. Booley’s work has received recognition both locally and internationally, affirming its value and impact within the realm of cultural representation and storytelling through imagery.
“Heritage and culture, in terms of what was passed down, and what I came to find as the practice of the Muslims of the Cape is very important to me. They have informed my world view, and my practice. The open door policy, and the paramount importance of hospitality due to the guest for example, speaking out against injustice, maintaining bonds of family and community, the smell of freshly baked pies on Eid morning after a month of fasting, the melodious mix of the various mosques in Bo-Kaap calling the Adhaan at the time of the prayer are all aspects that have formed the framework of my Identity and have established in me a sense of “place”, a sense of origin, a sense of birthright.”
-Yasser Booley
Artists
Support marginalized artists by purchasing Gary Frier's prints.
Part of the proceeds go towards sustaining OCTH, to continue providing practical support to marginalized artists, telling stories about culture and traditions, while educating and preserving cultural history and heritage through art.
EMPOWERING MARGINALIZED ARTISTS BY PROVIDING PRACTICAL SUPPORT TO SHOWCASE THEIR ARTWORK
Born in Strandfontein, she finds joy and beauty in the world around her and aims to engage with the audience, encouraging them to contemplate their own life experiences. Titus aims to capture the essence of the African community as a whole through the use of vivid and striking colours in her paintings.
Embracing the rich tapestry of her cultural background, with roots in Namibia, she immerses herself in the traditions, customs, and stories passed down through generations.
In the exhibition, she delves into culture by exploring her identity, recognizing that her cultural heritage is an intrinsic part of her being.
Our Cape Town Heritage is happy to showcase the artwork of Gary Frier. Born in Kuilsriver, he is an artist and art therapy facilitator, who uses art therapy in his practice. Frier uses different found objects and discarded materials in his portraits of people he has come across in his life as a facilitator.
Frierer's themes and subjects are culturally and socio-politically inspired. In his art, he finds inspiration in many forms of media and says that his work is about emotive reflection of his place in the world.
By drawing inspiration from ancient myths and folklore, the exhibition “EKSÊ! Echoes of Self” shows Frier's artwork that sheds light on the profound impact that mythology and culture has on promoting social well-being and unity within society.
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The Art
With each discovery, Kimberley Titus feels a deep sense of connection to her roots and a profound appreciation for the diverse perspectives that shape her worldview. Through this journey of self-discovery, she not only celebrates her heritage, but also gains a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of her culture, fostering a sense of a new cultural identity. In honouring her past, she is empowered to confidently navigate the complexities of the present and envision a future where diversity is not only acknowledged, but also celebrated as a source of strength and beauty. Through her representations, we perceive a contemporary perspective on cultural experiences as a millennial, exploring the physical manifestations of culture.
While in the Northern Cape, Gary Frier felt a strong connection and curiosity towards individuals who embraced solitude in the vastness of their environment. He also incorporates elements from the First Nation Khoisan mythology into his artwork that he believes no longer remains in the new generations of indigenous nations who were disenfranchised by spatial apartheid planning. By drawing inspiration from ancient myths and folklore, Frier's artwork aims to shed light on the profound impact that culture and mythology have on promoting social well-being and unity within society. Through his creations, he weaves together narratives that transcend time and space, inviting viewers to contemplate the timeless wisdom and universal truths embedded in these stories.
Both Titus and Frier’s artistic endeavours serve as a bridge connecting the past to the present, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experiences and beliefs that shape our collective identity. In a world often marked by divisions, their work stands as a testament to the power of heritage and art that inspires empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of humanity across diverse cultures and traditions. The two artists anchor themselves in distinct temporal contexts; Kimberley asserts a specific viewpoint, while Frier’s interpretation of culture is characterized by fluidity and introspection.
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