Portfolio

2024

WASTE LAYERS, WOVEN LIVES: DISABILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL DIALOGUE IN SCULPTURE 

Artist statement

My project, Waste Layers, Woven Lives, delves into the intersections between environmental decay and social resilience, specifically focusing on the experiences of disabled individuals. Using recycled fabrics layered into a stepped base, I create a barren, drought-stricken landscape that serves as a metaphor for ecological collapse. Each layer of fabric represents different forms of waste and degradation, while also reflecting the layered challenges that marginalized communities face. This textured base supports the wire sculptures of disabled figures attempting to farm on this desolate terrain, emphasizing the resilience and perseverance required to survive in hostile environments. 

In this composition, a wheelchair-bound figure is positioned at the lowest point, looking upward as if observing and guiding those labouring above. This arrangement symbolizes resilience through oversight, as well as the systemic obstacles that disabled individuals confront. Employing principles of contrast, balance, and symbolic positioning, the work captures themes of hope, struggle, and the beauty within persistence. By merging environmental and social themes, my work invites viewers to reconsider the value of waste, to appreciate resilience, and to confront the impact of neglect both environment and of marginalized groups. This project is not just a visual narrative; it is a call to action for inclusivity and sustainable practices

2023

The Aesthetics of Waste Picking: Exploration of the Beauty in the Discarded.

Artist statement 

In my artworks, I explore the significance of waste pickers in our society and challenge the stereotypes associated with their occupation. My sculptures feature wire figures pulling trolleys filled with cardboard, glasses, and plastics, symbolizing the materials they collect. To emphasize the themes of anonymity and purity, the figures wear white balaclavas.

I chose to use adobe mixture as the base material for my sculptures. This references the living conditions of waste pickers in developing countries, where adobe buildings are commonly found due to their affordability and use of local materials. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by waste pickers in informal settlements and highlights the lack of basic infrastructure they endure.

To convey the fragility and vulnerability of waste pickers' situations, I suspend my sculptures with four strings. This represents the precariousness of their lives and the distorted social structures they navigate. The skewed platform symbolizes the uphill battle they face daily, where biases and obstacles hinder their efforts to make a living and contribute to society.

Through my artwork, I aim to create awareness about waste management, conscious consumption, and the importance of recognizing the valuable contributions of waste pickers. I strive to challenge societal perceptions and foster a more inclusive and dignified society that values their crucial role in preserving our environment. 

2021-2022

Ceramic Sculptures:

Exploring form and texture in ceramic, a foundational part of my creative evolution.

Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the firing of clay sculptures in my portfolio was not possible within the given timeframe. However, I have included these sculptures to demonstrate my creative process and intentions.

Insecure

Clay

2021 

Ayisindwa ngumboko wayo (not burden by its trunk)

Clay

2020

Ukutyela emngqomeni (Eating out of a bin)

Clay

2020

Imbumba (a mass)

Clay

2021

The mother of the chariot

Clay

2020 

Printmaking: 

Artist Statement

In my printmaking series, I explored the language of shapes and colours to depict waste pickers' characters and raising awareness about environmental consciousness. The coloured shapes that surround the waste pickers' heads represent different postures, conveying their resilience and determination.

Shapes hold symbolic significance in my work. The circle, symbolizing unity, infinity, and completeness, takes prominence, emphasizing the interconnectedness between humanity and the environment. It highlights the profound impact our actions have on the world.

Squares and rectangles are also employed, symbolizing stability, balance, security, direction, dynamism, and power. These shapes visually embody the strength and courage of waste pickers as they navigate challenging circumstances.

Red and yellow are the key colours used in my interpretations. Red evokes passion, energy, and danger, urging contemplation about environmental issues. Yellow signifies joy, optimism, and clarity, serving as a reminder of positive change and a sustainable future.

Through my printmaking artworks, I aim to inspire viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of waste pickers. By harmoniously blending visual elements, I foster a constructive dialogue on waste management, social responsibility, and the transformative power of collective action.