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Artist Tshepo Phokojoe’s solo work inspired by a sense of homesickness and belonging
Tshepo Phokojoe the 2023 recipient of the The Blessing Ngobeni Art Prize, which comes with a 12 week studio residency and a solo exhibition.
Artist Tshepo Phokojoe preparing for his solo exhibition. Picture: Supplied
Joburg-based artist Tshepo Phokojoe’s first solo exhibition is inspired by homesickness and a sense of belonging.
Speaking to The Citizen, the multi-disciplinary talent said he wrestled with the idea after visiting KwaZulu-Natal.
“The inspiration for the show stemmed from the concept of homesickness and the exploration of whether ‘home’ is a physical place or a feeling.
“The show represents a deeply personal exploration of the concept of ‘home’ as a Sowetan. During a visit to KZN, my distinct Johannesburg accent made it clear that I wasn’t originally from there, sparking thoughts about belonging and the absence of a sense of place,” he said.
Titled Woven Comforts, the 28 year-old’s exhibition is currently showing at Joburg’s Everard Read Gallery until Saturday.
The exhibition aims to evoke a strong emotional connection and nostalgia. By using hessian cloth as a medium, it invites onlookers to reflect on their inherent human desires for comfort, safety, and belonging.
“I questioned whether, to progress, we need to create a new culture, a new language, or if we should embrace the unfamiliar.”
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The material
The use of hessian cloth as a canvas allows for these profound concepts to come alive. Intricately woven structures represent the idea of a ‘nest’, symbolizing the care and warmth associated with creating a haven for oneself and loved ones.
He came across the material while assisting another artist, Nkhensani Rihlampfu.
“As I delved deeper into the material, I became enamoured with its biodegradability and versatility. My curiosity revolved around how far I could push the material and its symbolic significance in relation to my personal inquiry about migration and displacement as a Sowetan,” Phokojoe said.
Hessian fabric is made from natural vegetable fibres, making it completely biodegradable. It’s useful in landscaping and agricultural uses, and also very popular in the décor/craft industry for its eco-friendly properties.
The concept of a ‘womb’ is delicately portrayed through a human figure covered in cloth. This representation symbolizes the primal source of life, security, and growth.
It also prompts contemplation about the origins of life, the sanctuary provided by maternal love, and the endless potential that new beginnings hold.
Phokojoe was part of the 2017 Peer Mentoring at Assemblage Studios guided by renowned visual artist Bronwyn Lace. He has also worked as studio assistant to artists Nkhensani Rihlampfu and Nicholas Hlobo. Phokojoe has received numerous awards, including the 2017 PPC Imaginarium Merit Award for Fashion.
He is the 2023 recipient of The Blessing Ngobeni Art Prize, an award aimed at assisting young and emerging visual artists to launch their careers.
The Award provides the nominated artist with a twelve-week studio residency in Johannesburg and a solo exhibition at the Everard Read Gallery in Johannesburg. Previous recipients include 2020’s Abongile Sidzumo and Tendai Mupita, who received it in 2016.
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