PHOTOGRAPHY: NADINE DERUYCK
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR: JEAN-LUC VANDAMME
Since the early 90s, Jean-Luc Van Damme has been visiting South Africa as a filmproducer. During one of his trips with Nadine Deruyck, they conceived the idea of developing a photographic project in a Cape Town township. In early 2024, they decided to bring this vision to life in Imizamo Yethu township, also known as Mandela Park, situated in Hout Bay, south of Cape Town.
Imizamo Yethu (Xhosa, meaning "Our Efforts" and commonly known as Mandela Park) faces significant challenges including poverty, crime and unemployment rates exceeding 40%. Despite these hardships, the township is uniquely situated within a residential area that provides substantial employment opportunities for its residents. The township hosts two free schools — a primary and a secondary school — where uniforms are mandatory.
This initiative highlights the daily lives of the residents of Imizamo Yethu.
The exhibition features two types of portraits: one capturing inhabitants in their natural environments, and another in a formal headshot style against a black backdrop.
Special recognition to Wonga, Tseko, and Sobs for their contribution, providing security during the project.
Additionally, special thanks to Allison Ellard for her involvement in making the project possible.