“I’m using visuals as a way of creating awareness. Capturing the moments, those truths and realities, the world will learn about our cultures.” —Zanele Muholi
Acclaimed South African photographer Zanele Muholi (b. 1972, Umlazi, Durban) calls themself a ‘visual activist,’ referring to their use of photography to call attention to the lives and challenges of the LGBTQ community in South Africa. Their work is currently featured in two high-profile exhibitions: May You Live in Interesting Times, Ralph Rugoff’s primary exhibition at the 58th Venice Biennale (through November 24, 2019); and Kiss My Genders, just opened at the Hayward Gallery in London (through September 8, 2019).
In 2013, Human Rights Watch produced this short documentary about Muholi and their work in South Africa, focusing on the organization Inkanyiso, which supports and gives a platform to young visual artists and writers from the LGBTQ community in South Africa.