Images of joy and hope in Alex exhibition
JOBURG -Acclaimed photographer and poet join forces for inspiring show
A photography exhibition to be shown in Alexandra will portray the area’s residents in a way not often seen by many Joburgers.
“[Dark City Dreams], comprising 15 images, was born out of a desire to show the smiling face of Alexandra,” publicist Helen Holyoake said on behalf of exhibition organisers, Afrika Tikkun.
“[Alex] normally conjures up images of poverty, illness, crime and grime. While this is a less-than-privileged society, there also exists a life that throbs with excitement, joy, happiness and hope.”
The photographs were taken by award-winning photographer Michael Meyersfeld.
Acclaimed poet and Alex resident, Wally Mongane Serote wrote a poem for each image, and he will open the exhibition at Phutaditjaba School in August.
The exhibition will coincide with the Johannesburg Art Fair, to be held at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Visitors to the In Toto Gallery stand will have the opportunity to be ferried to Alex to view the exhibition on site.
“To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Afrika Tikkun’s involvement in Alex, Meyersfeld donated three boxed sets with 15 photographs each,” said Holyoake.
“Each print is accompanied by an image-inspired poem by Serote, with the 16th ‘print’ being his famous poem, Alexandra. Each Glycee print was autographed by Meyersfeld and Serote, and the collection is beautifully presented in a handcrafted wooden portfolio box designed by sculptor Russell Scott and made from Finnish birch ply, with a personalised plaque on top.”
The boxed sets will be sold before the exhibition opening.
“In the two years [of] shooting in Alex, the sincere love, warmth and respect that I encountered has to be the most significant and worthwhile experience of my working life,” said Meyersfeld.
Dark City Dreams will run from 23 until 24 August at Phutaditjaba School, 584 17th Avenue, Alexandra, and from 4 until 22 September at In Toto Gallery, 6 Birdhaven Centre, 66 St Andrew Street, Birdhaven.
Details: Michael Meyersfeld www.meyersfeld.com; Afrika Tikkun 011 325 5914, www.afrikatikkun.org; www.intotogallery.com
