SA Photographer Accused Of Blackface In Model Row

13-08-2020

2020

LOCAL

A South African photographer has been accused of blackface after using make-up to make a lighter-skinned model darker rather than just using a darker model in his latest work. The portrait of model Ponaholo Mojapelo by photographer Imraan Christian has been met with criticism, with many arguing that the artist should have hired a dark-skinned model in the first place instead of making Mojapelo darker. The portrait was posted on Instagram by Christian and the caption read: “Our first series 'Crowns' explores the relationship our great indigenous ancestors had with the cosmos and the way it was shared with future generation through art and spoken word." But some social media users took against the portrait. Writing on Twitter, '@_Ramps' said: "For someone who idolises Imraan Christian and the art he does, I'm so disappointed". Another added that it was "erasure" and that Christian should have hired dark-skinned models. On Instagram 'kaapstadtokigali' wrote "I understand the intentions behind this piece, but I feel the need to say that as a dark-skinned black woman this hurts and offends me," with Christian responding: "The intention was to celebrate, not harm fam, we will keep discussing further as a team and reach out to you if you are open to it." 'kaapstadtokigali' said back: " I understand this but you could have hired a dark skinned model? Esp as a non-black person, you should know better Imraan. Sies man." Responding to criticism, Christian said the intention behind the portrait was to "pay homage to a shared ancient ancestor". He added: “We’re fully aware of the serious conversation that needs to be had regarding colourist and ‘blackface’. We do not take these matters lightly and our work continues to showcase black and brown poplin SA because we are of the same experience and background.[sic]" (T4 / ends)