Nokukhanya Charity Vilakazi is a multimedia artist and visual orator from Ethekwini,. Her artistry revolves around mediums like photography, painting, and video art. However, it is her unique use of ibomvu (Red clay) with acrylic paints that truly sets her work apart. Through this technique, she showcases the beauty of her characters, drawing inspiration from the African tradition of using clay for beautification.
Vilakazi’s art is deeply rooted in African folktales and literature, as well as traditional storytelling from a matriarchal perspective. Growing up, she was fortunate to be surrounded by grandmothers who instilled in her and other young girls the belief that they were just as valuable as boys.
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These grandmothers shared tales that featured women as protagonists, passing them down through generations. These stories not only entertained but also educated, forming an essential part of African tradition and fostering a sense of unity and belonging among its people.
A central theme in Vilakazi’s work is the representation of African women in folktales. Through her art, she explores the liberating and disruptive potential of female power, resilience, wisdom, and agency. By authentically depicting female agency and empowering the African woman’s psyche, she brings to light the wisdom of folklore, myth, fantasy, and social history. Vilakazi believes that these narratives can instigate social change and promote egalitarian relations within African society.
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Feminism, mythology, spirituality, and cultural influences are significant aspects of Vilakazi’s art. Her work seeks to challenge gynocentric norms in an African context, celebrating women as key protagonists who possess profound power and humanity. Through her art, she aims to restore and empower African women, while also shedding light on the rich heritage and traditions that shape their lives.
