Imraan Christian, an artist born I Cape Town, has gained international recognition for his unique approach to grassroots projects across various mediums and industries. His work not only resonates with the voices of the youth but also pays homage to the untold stories of indigenous ancestors.
One of Christian’s notable projects is titled ‘Ma Se Kinders,’ which lovingly translates to ‘Mothers Children’ in Afrikaans. This fine arts project goes beyond its artistic value and aims to decolonized our identity while creating space for it.
In a country like South Africa, with a complex history of apartheid and colonisation, engaging with recent history can be a heavy task. ‘Ma Se Kinders’ tackles these historical issues while exploring themes of mythology and the dual nature of youth.
The series takes place in the picturesque fishing village of Hangberg, located in Cape Town. Through fine art portraiture, Christian unfolds the stories of indigenous characters, capturing the beauty of identity without the constraints of geographical borders. He merges hs own tales with those of the past, creating artwork that speaks to both the present and the ancestral.
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One integral part of the ‘Ma Se Kinders’ universe is the project “!Noma.” This series serves as a tribute to a time before colonial borders, celebrating the nomadic yet deeply rooted indigenous migratory patterns that existed in Africa during pre-colonial times.
Christian’s artwork challenges the notion that stories from South Africa should always be about struggle. Instead, he presents a different narrative, one that celebrates beauty and the matriarchal pillars of society. By transforming scenes of daily life into dreamscapes, Christian turns Hangberg into a heavenly place, where mythology and reality intertwine.
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Through his work, Imraan Christian invites us to explore our own identities and question the boundaries that have been imposed upon us. He reminds us that art has the power to transcend time and place, allowing us to connect with our roots and envision a future where our stories are told with beauty and pride.
