Of Soul and Joy Presents “eNqutu”: A Photographic Exhibition Showcasing Personal Stories from Local Youth

Of Soul and Joy, a vocational programme dedicated to empowering youth through the field of photography, is pleased to announce its latest project, eNqutu, a photographic exhibition featuring personal stories from local youth and selected students from Mathukulula High School in Nqutu, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

The exhibition, held at Mathukulula High School from 1 – 30 April 2023, will showcase work created during a three-week intensive workshop last year, facilitated by Of Soul and Joy mentors Jabulani Dhlamini, Thandile Zwelibanzi, Sbusiso Bheka, and Tshepiso Mazibuko. The mentors worked closely with the students to develop their photography skills and help them express their unique perspectives.

“We are thrilled to showcase the incredible work of these talented young photographers,” said Of Soul and Joy mentor and project manager, Jabulani Dhlamini. “Their stories are a testament to the power of the arts to bring communities together and to provide a platform for self-expression.”

The exhibition’s focus is on the student’s individual stories and their relationship to the surrounding landscape and ideologies of home. The photographs created by the students provide commentary on their experience of life on the periphery, and the politics surrounding what it means to be an ‘insider’ versus an ‘outsider’. Ultimately, the exhibition aims to create a visual archive of the community of Ethelezini and to showcase the students’ creative talents.

Admission to the eNqutu exhibition is free.

More about Of Soul and Joy

 Initiated in the heart of Thokoza, southeast of Johannesburg, South Africa, Of Soul and Joy aims to provide the township’s youth and its surroundings with professional skills in the field of photography. As a creative platform, Of Soul and Joy offers weekly workshops led by renowned photographers, encounters with art professionals, collaborations with cultural institutions and organizes art events in Africa and abroad.

In its 10 years of existence, the programme has helped reveal young photographers who are now making a living from their work and building an international career. Their work is exhibited in numerous festivals and fairs (Bamako Encouters, Addis Foto Fest, PhotoSaintGermain, Paris Photo, Cape Town Art Fair, etc.), awarded prestigious prizes (CAP Prize, Prince Claus Fund, etc.), and represented by agencies and galleries (Magnum Photos, Afronova).