Zandile Tshabalala, a talented visual artist from Soweto, is gaining attention in the art world with her interesting and deep paintings. Candle’s work centres around challenging the historical representation of black women in art. By reinterpreting and reworking the works of influential painters, she aims to give voice and power back to the black female figure.
Tshabalala draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Kerry James Marshall, Njideka Akunyili- Crosby, Cinga Samson, Nandipha Mntambo and Henri Rousseau. Her preferred mediums are acrylic and oil paint, which she combines with sculptural elements on canvas. This approach allows her to create pieces that engage with the viewer on multiple levels.
One of the central themes in Tshabalala’s work is the representation of black women in historical paintings. She noticed a recurring pattern where black women were often relegated to the background or depicted in compromising positions, reinforcing the notion of their inferiority and marginalization.
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Motivated to challenge these stereotypes, Tshabalala places the black female figure in powerful positions within her paintings. Through this, she aims to restore agency and control to the black woman, allowing her to reclaim her identity and challenge societal norms.
Tshabalala’s artwork walks into the complex relationship between black female bodies and the landscape. She explores notions of beauty and sensuality, celebrating the diverse forms and features of black women. By presenting the black female figure in a confident and empowered manner, Tshabalala challenges conventional beauty standards.
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Through her art, Zandile seeks to give back the black woman’s voice, which has been historically silenced or overshadowed. By placing the black female figure in control of her own body and the gaze exchanged between her and the viewer, Tshabalala empowers black women to assert their presence and challenge societal norms.
