The discourse about albinism is generally avoided as taboo in the South African context. When discussed, it is usually viewed as negative, or as a sought after “oddity” in fashion and art trends.
Justin Dingwall, photographer and creator of the series Albus, aims for an intimate perspective to foreground the myths surrounding albinism.
Perceptions of beauty
This series developed into an exploration of the aesthetics of albinism in contrast to the idealised perceptions of beauty. It began as an interest to capture something not conventionally perceived as “beauty”.
Dingwall began this project with the ethereal portraits of Thando Hopa, a legal prosecutor who is using her visibility to address the negative perceptions surrounding albinism. Dingwall’s inspiring new work features Sanele Xaba, a young model with albinism, and uses specific elements to foreground the symbolic meaning behind each work.
Dingwall’s intention is for the images to become a celebration of beauty in difference. “They are not about race or fashion, but about perception, and what we subjectively perceive as beautiful. I wanted to create a series of images that resonate with humanity and make people question what is beautiful”.
Dingwall’s interest lies in the unique and the different; “to me diversity is what makes humanity interesting and beautiful”.
Recurring motifs of butterflies, snakes and water suggest notions of rebirth, metamorphosis, fluidity and flux; reflecting Dingwall’s desire to inspire a change in perception and indicate that beauty is not a fixed ideal, but rather one that is ever shifting and changeable.
The conception of beauty as it exists in Albus is one that is ambiguous, subjective and diverse.
See Justin Dingwall’s solo exhibition ‘Albus’ at Cavalli Gallery from 14 May until the 9 June, 2017.
What: Justin Dingwall – Albus
When: 14 May until the 9 June, 2017
Where: Cavalli Gallery, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Info: gallery@cavalliestate.com, 021 855 3218
WS
