Our WCW is Tamary Kudita who stands as a revolutionary in the world of fine art photography.
The Zimbabwean-born creative is distinguished not only by her accolades but by the depth of her exploration into themes of cultural duality, African identity, and transgenerational memory.
After graduating from the prestigious Michaelis School of Fine Art at the University of Cape Town in 2017 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Kudita embarked on a journey that would see her break barriers and redefine narratives.
Her groundbreaking series ‘African Victorian’ not only secured her the esteemed title of the 2021 Open Photographer of The Year at the Sony World Photography Award making her the first African to win the award.
This accolade marked a pivotal moment in the representation of African narratives on a global stage. Through her lens, Kudita unveils the layers of complexity inherent in African identity, shedding light on the intricate interplay between tradition and modernity, heritage and globalization.
Kudita’s impact extends far beyond photography; she is a scholar and visual artist whose work transcends boundaries and challenges conventions. In 2023, she was honoured as the J.M.D Manyika Fellow by Harvard University, a testament to her intellectual contributions to African art and culture discourse.
Moreover, various other awards have recognized her artistic prowess, including the Runner-Up Prize at Art Takes 2021 and the Most Inspiring Art Piece Award from the Voices of African Women Journal in 2020.
Born in Zimbabwe, Kudita’s personal narrative mirrors the themes she explores in her art – a story of duality and the intricate navigation of multiple identities.
Her lineage traces back to the Orange Free State in South Africa, underscoring the complex tapestry of her heritage. Through her work, Kudita delves into the nuances of cultural inheritance, interrogating the legacies of colonialism and the enduring resilience of African traditions.
Her solo exhibitions, hosted in renowned galleries such as The Betsy Gallery at Art Basel in Miami and the PH Centre Gallery in Cape Town, serve as platforms for dialogue and reflection.
Each photograph encapsulates a fragment of the African experience, inviting viewers to contemplate the intricacies of identity and memory in a rapidly evolving world.
As Africa grapples with the legacy of colonialism and seeks paths to post-colonial reconciliation, Kudita’s work assumes a profound significance.
Through her art, she offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of African identity, challenging stereotypes and reclaiming narratives.
In a world increasingly shaped by images, Tamary Kudita emerges as a visionary, reshaping the visual landscape and paving the way for a more inclusive and authentic representation of Africa and its people.
In an exclusive interview with GQ South Africa, Tamary Kudita shares valuable insights on her work, the current state of African Art and provides hints on what is to come.
Describing her work, Tamary says, “I like to think of myself as a visual activist who uses the camera as a tool. I would say that my style plays on the dualities that exist in the world.
Contemporary versus historical, Fantasy versus reality, modernity versus tradition and endings versus beginnings. Reflecting on these polarities allow me to create a fluid visual language.
Ultimately, the philosophy that shapes my creative practice is constantly evolving as I learn and grow. My approach of inclusivity reflects humanist values such as respect for individual dignity alongside the pursuit of equality. I enjoy approaching creation as a process of discovery. Some of my concepts align with artistic movements like romanticism and realism, which challenge established norms. Furthermore, I hope that the work I create can spark curiosity, empathy, and a sense of wonder for viewers.”
Written by Takudzwa Nyambi
