Lebohang Kganye, a South African pacesetting visual artist, is redefining contemporary photography by weaving together personal and national histories. Born in Johannesburg in 1990, Kganye’s work transcends traditional photography through a fusion of mediums including sculpture, theatre, and performance. Her art delves into themes of identity, memory, and displacement, offering profound reflections on South Africa’s post-apartheid realities.
Kganye recently gained international acclaim by winning the prestigious 2024 Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize, awarded for her exhibition “Haufi nyana? I’ve come to take you home” at Foam Amsterdam. This evocative work features life-sized photographic cut-outs of family members, merging archival images with contemporary narratives. Her poignant storytelling addresses the physical and emotional displacements caused by apartheid, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Her journey into art was deeply personal. After her mother’s passing in 2010, Kganye embarked on a transformative journey across South Africa to trace her maternal roots. These experiences inspired her to create deeply introspective works that act as mirrors for audiences, reflecting broader societal issues while honoring her family’s legacy. Kganye’s installations challenge traditional notions of photography, transforming it into a medium for cultural dialogue and historical inquiry.
In addition to her artistic prowess, Kganye’s commitment to storytelling through visual art marks her as a pivotal figure in contemporary African art. Her works continue to be exhibited globally, reinforcing her status as a dynamic voice in the ongoing narrative of African identity and history.
