Candice Myataza, a visual artist from Cape Town, South Africa, walks into the realms of spirituality, mental health, and social constructs through her unique artwork. Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences and literature, Candice aims to bridge the gap between the African diaspora and Western culture, inviting viewers to reflect on their own perceptions and their impact on the world.
Growing up in a black community with a mixed-race background (a black mother and a white father), Myataza encountered racism that left her with a fragmented sense of racial belonging. In her quest to understand and make sense of these experiences, she developed a distinctive technique using acrylics on canvas. Her artwork often features a human outline filled with different shades of brown blocks, symbolizing the shared humanity that transcends our fragmented differences.
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Myataza’s indigenous black culture upbringing confronted her with conflicting information from Western culture upon integration. This clash of worlds left her in a state of limbo, prompting her to explore the common ground between these two spheres. Through her art, she seeks to find harmony and create a dialogue between these seemingly disparate cultures.
At the core of Myataza’s work lies an invitation for viewers to carefully examine their own individual perceptions and the influence these perceptions can have on the world. By challenging preconceived notions and encouraging introspection, she prompts us to question the constructs that shape our understanding of identity, race, and culture.
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Candice Myataza’s art is a captivating exploration of spirituality, mental health, and social constructs. Through her unique technique and thought-provoking themes, she bridges the gap between the African diaspora and Western culture. Her art serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity, urging us to embrace our differences and find common ground in a world that often emphasizes division.
