Sibahle magazine // ISSUE 02

02 Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

Odyssey

- J u ne / / J u ly 201 5 -

1

come home to

the nest

the home for young african creatives

the nest is a continent-wide youth network of free thinkers, ideators, makers, creators, artists, musicians, storytellers, film makers, placemakers, designers, educators,scientists, students, entrepreneurs, leaders, writers, bloggers, art directors, creative directors, urbanists, instagrammers, photographers

+ you

join now www.creativenestlings.com

Odyssey odyssey |ˈɒdɪsi| a long and eventful or adventurous journey or experience journey, voyage, trek, travels, quest, crusade, pilgrimage, wandering, journeying; archaic peregrination.

coPyRight © 2015 | Sibahle PRoDuctionS (Pty) ltD

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

1

2015/06/03

1:16 AM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SIBAHLE | VOL. 2 | JUNE-JULY 2015

contentS

contributors ruramai ‘rudo’ musekiwa art Director | editor in chief chann de villiers feature writer | Radio!123

@

info@sibahle.com

m

+27 81 415 5218

w

www.sibahle.com

facebOOk twitteR inStagRam

Sibahle @sibahleafrica @sibahleafrica

Sibahle Magazine is published by SIBAHLE PRODUCTIONS (PTY) LTD. All Rights Reserved.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

5

contentS

36

mpho s e b i n a

Musical inspiration

42 Ofentse Letebele a c R e at i v e P o w e R h o u S e

50 e v e R y D ay P e o P l e e v e R y D ay S to R i e S

10 StoRieS

6

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

contentS

56

Jeff Jeffery Rikhotso Photography

72

Slaying g o l i at h dav i d t s h a b a l a l a D e S i g n e R , i l l u S t R at o R , c R e at i v e g e n i u S c R e at i n g meaningful woRk.

80 Radio!123 is an “Ultra-Native Innovative Urban Funk” Band bringing you the “Mandela - P o p ” re v o l u t i o n .

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

7

contentS

86

k . C h o ko E K.Chokoe Photography m e ta S P e c u l a R m u S i n g S

94 I l l u s t r a t i o n s b y e m e rg i n g Nigerian artist:

tbj uDegbunam

104

PRoveRbS S e l f p o r t r a i t s & p ro v e r b s b y Palesa Motsomi

8

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

9

H a L L O

EDITOR’S LETTER

RuDo’S note

when savouring nostalgic pauses, i reflect on my journey as an odyssey, a myriad of colourful experiences connected to this beautiful continent we call home [kumba]. the backdrop that is africa makes for beautiful stories played out on vibrant landscapes. this issue explores intriguing spaces beyond South african borders; the ghanaian creative collective Let’s.Make.A.Difference have graced our cover with an image that speaks to perspective and also share a photographic editorial that responds to the question of the value of women in ghanaian society as well as contextual nuances in daily life. this issue came together beautifully through real conversations and interactions, connections that almost seemed orchestrated. every story, visual, creative expression is something inspired by a journey travelled and what becomes apparent is that we are all travellers, some slowly trudging through life and others hastily chasing after never-ending destinations. the message of ‘Sibahle’ continues to take shape in different forms and is a significant message in the face of issues like the april xenophobic attacks that left a morose heaviness in many of our hearts and minds. may we unlearn division by recognising our collective beauty. the cornucopia of talent that is in our continent and within the Diaspora is mind-blowing! i hope you enjoy the odyssey that is Sibahle, the organic growth and adventure we embark on together as african people of diverse backgrounds and varying expressions of our africanism. embrace every second of your odyssey. blessings

ruramai musekiwa // FOUNDER // Editor in Chief 12

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

RuDo’S note

Photo: Marvin Phungula

Odyssey odyssey |ˈɒdɪsi| a long and eventful or adventurous journey or experience journey, voyage, trek, travels, quest, crusade, pilgrimage, wandering, journeying; archaic peregrination.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

13

a f R o m a n i a

g h a n a | c Ov E R f E aT u R E

c ov e r f e at u r e | e d i to r i a l

PhotogRaPhy

l e t ’ S

m a k e

a

DIFFERENCE creatives are the brains and voices behind men’s street lifestyle-turned-creative brand lets.make.a.Difference… Patrick Kenneth Ackah, Richard kwesi Amoako, Golfred Amoah and Randy Asare Boateng combine their collective creative genius to showcase art and style in different dimensions. their photo editorial gives us an inside view of their space and culture with emphasis on the role of women in ghanaian society.

Follow @Let’s.Make.A.Difference on instagram

16

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PhotogRaPhy

Cre at iv e C ollect i

ve A f ro m

an

ia

|L

e t’ sM

ak

e

a

D iff er

en

ce -G

ha

na Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

17

eDitoRial

“Kente�...Is a type of silk and cotton fabric made of interwoven cloth strips... This cloth is made up of so many colours and every colour has its meaning..

18

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

eDitoRial

In our Ghanaian society we link clothing to emotions...

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

19

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

2015/06/03

1:07 AM

eDitoRial

We also love to rear domestic animals for food and income... these are some of the traditional lifestyles found in Ghanaian society...

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

21

PhotogRaPhy

2/3 Series portrait

22

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PhotogRaPhy

3/3 Series portrait

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

23

t a m a R a n a t a l i e m a D D e n

Ta m a R a n aTa L I E m a D D E n a R T

i n t e r v i e w e d b y: r u r a m a i ’ r u d o ’ m u s e k i wa

q&a youR jouRney with aRt haS been both SeRenDiPitouS anD DeeP, tell uS about how you ReDiScoveReD aRt anD founD youRSelf in what you continue to exPReSS? art was something that i always enjoyed during my younger years, but it was never something that i thought of as a career path. i was very passionate about pursuing a career in journalism. you can plan your path, but more often than not, life will take you down unforeseen roads. i was 21 when i was diagnosed with iga nephropathy, an autoimmune kidney disease. i was very disheartened and overwhelmed by illness, and raising a child -- so i looked to god, and art for peace of mind. i started drawing again, and by the time i started dialysis, it really became my saving grace. creating art was highly cathartic, and because of art i was able to cope. i never intended for my work to inspire others, i was simply focused on healing. now i’ve learned that my gift is all a part of a bigger plan, and i am grateful to be able to share it with the world. what iS the oveRaRching inSPiRation behinD youR woRk? everyday people inspire me because they are the foundation and the backbone of society. i focus on an individual’s inherent beauty, their grace under pressure, their drive, and their warrior spirit. i want to continue to highlight these people, because their value in this world is priceless.

i’ve leaRneD that my gift iS all a PaRt of a biggeR Plan, anD i am gRateful to be able to ShaRe it with the woRlD. youR SubjectS Seem to take on a Regal aPPeaRance, what iS the Significance of thiS? my paintings are metaphors. each one tells a story, requiring the viewer to look deeper. everyday people wearing royal garb serves as a way to show these individuals in a new light, one that allows them to be seen in all of the grandeur that they deserve. it lifts them from their austere state into a position of regality, which forces those who may have overlooked them to stop, and pay attention. what Significance (if any) DoeS youR afRican anceStRy have in how you view youR iDentity anD aPPRoach youR woRk? my african ancestry plays a great role in how i approach my work. i am a black woman, and i recognize that my ancestry provides me with innate inspirations. many aspects of jamaican culture are deeply connected with african traditions and value systems. i am inspired to highlight the beauty of the people of the african Diaspora because it is a story that is not seen or told often enough. i certainly want to encourage young women and girls around the world who have dark skin to know their worth. they need to feel beautiful, valuable and important in the world. as my work focuses on highlighting those who are overlooked, i often use imagery of deep colored skin because so often these people feel disregarded because of something as basic as skin color. i want to continue to paint them gloriously, while highlighting the beauty and range of their skin tones.

26

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

q&a

Jamaican Artist Tamara Natalie Madden is a true inspiration.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

27

q&a which contemPoRaRy aRtiStS inSPiRe you? i am most inspired by artists who are unique, one of a kind, and speak proudly with their own artistic voice. here are just a few: Toyin Odutola T. Elliot Mansa Brad Kunkle what iS the one meSSage you woulD like to leave aS a legacy thRough youR aRtwoRk? i want my art and life to be a representation of what you can achieve despite your circumstances. my life has been laden with pain and struggle, but through that struggle i found strength, truth and purpose. what iS youR take on cReative activiSm anD DoeS youR woRk finD a voice in that PaRticulaR SPace? i think the purpose of art is to speak on subjects that are important to you as an artist, and make an impact on the world. many artists affect great change in the world, and their voices are very important. Some artists are loud, vibrant, and constantly moving to create immediate change, others are subtler and take a more strategic approach to their work. all artists are important, and the way they approach their work is valuable and important. i speak about topics that are important to me, and important to society, but i choose to approach it in a more palatable way. i may not be overtly rebellious in my approach, but i believe that i am still creating change through my own approach. we have to respect each other, and appreciate the differences in how we approach the world. youR PaintingS aRe DeScRibeD aS “allegoRieS whoSe SubjectS aRe the PeoPle of the afRican DiaSPoRa”, PleaSe elaboRate on thiS... when i began painting, i painted those, ‘everyday people’ literally. they continued to be ignored, and the message that i was attempting to share with the world was overlooked. the only thing that the viewer saw was sadness and degradation. i chose to paint my images as metaphors because i needed to express the same things in a way that was more visually captivating. i wanted to tell the story without being too literal.

i want my aRt anD life to be a RePReSentation of what you can achieve DeSPite youR ciRcumStanceS.

28

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

q&a

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

29

q&a

30

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

q&a

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

31

q&a

32

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

q&a

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

33

m P h o s e b i n a

SOuLfuL SOngSTRESS

i n t e r v i e w e d b y: r u r a m a i ’ r u d o ’ m u s e k i wa

muSic

36

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

muSic

s e b i n a i recently discovered this gem of an artist who’s mellow, soothing voice is liquid bliss flowing through well crafted instrumentals rooted in an unmistakable african sound. her voice is unique and refined and if you listen carefully you’ll pick up undertones of erykah badu, Sade, amel larrieux; a familiar warmth in her vocals. mpho Sebina is currently recording her first album and her unique sound is a muchneeded breath of fresh air, beautiful energy translating into music that is patiently, delicately crafted. her first single ‘Loves Light’ will take you on a four and a half minute journey into pure oblivion.

click here to listen to

love’s light

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

37

muSic

Take us Through your musical journey…

I fell in love with music a very long time ago growing up on the sounds of Miriam Makeba, UB40, Mbongeni Ngema* to name a few. Its just always been a very joyous experience for me. After years of discovering myself i journeyed into making music myself and destiny brought me to a studio where i felt at home started working on my sound and my writing skills and here i am today working on an my very first album.

Which arTisTs (conTemporary and old school) inspire your sound?

Sade, Bob Marley, Sona Jobarteh , Asa , Brenda Fassie, Lebo Mathosa, La Timmy , Pompi, the list is endless.

WhaT do you define your sound/genre of music as?

Its soul music fused with various genres thus.... soul fusion

WhaT is your core message? WhaT Would you like To leave behind as a legacy Through your Work?

I believe love is really important and is a healer, that’s my main agenda but I’m also on a path of self discovery in the hopes of becoming a better person; more forgiving, peaceful, loving and all that other good stuff. I would love to leave the kind of music that will soothe and heal people, uplift people and encourage positive living and encourage peace love and happiness. your re-imaginaTion of The boom shaka classic “leraTo” To erykah badu’s “oTherside of The game” is nexT level! Will you be creaTing more of These experimenTal fusions or is your currenT/sole focus refining your oWn unique sound?

[Hmmm] I’m always up for a musical experiment but right now i am focused on my album and developing myself as a musician, still experimenting but with my original pieces.

Who Would you like To collaboraTe WiTh?

Sade, 2Face Idibia, Damian Marley, Khuli Chana, Youssou N’Dour, Riky Rick, Apollo D, Kendrick Lamar, Major Lazer…… the list goes on. being african is?...

... exciting, beautiful, difficult and delicious all in one.

Where do you see yourself and your music five years from noW?

Touring the world making music, being in love, stronger, helping others and enjoying my life.

WhaT are you currenTly lisTening To?

- Cuebar -U Ta Swikota - Gaone - Kopisa - Lalah Hathaway- Jesus Children of Marica - Rudimental - Never let you go - Skrillex and Diplo with Justin bieber- Where are you now - Kygo (Ed Sheeran) - I see Fire

38

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

muSic

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

39

o f e n t S e l e t e b e l e

kIng DEbS

cReative featuRe

ofentse letebele is a multi-talented creative-come- activist in his own right. his work is an extension of his heritage and embodies his journey as an african man.

ofentse letebele, popularly known as “king Debs”, is an emerging artist who specializes in multimedia design and music production. this vivacious cape town based gem is the architect of ‘amanDla’, a liberation movement that uses design and art to spread a universal consciousness of unity and solidarity. his goal is to promote self-love and instil self-confidence amongst africans so that they are equipped to tackle socio economic challenges. letebele draws his influences from his life experiences, interests, and the overall state of his life. his current work illustrates his profound interest for robotics and hardware stores - he finds himself spending several hours looking at all the different objects he could use bring something unique to life.. he’s a self-taught artist who started drawing ever since he could hold a pencil and his continued to develop his creative skills by researching design ideas and concepts that draw his attention. letebele makes time experiment with different materials and enjoys taking what he has learned and channeling it into a unique designs. in 2010 he attained a degree in multimedia Design from tshwane university of technology, which has been a useful tool from a theoretical point of view.

42

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

cReative featuRe

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

43

cReative featuRe

letebele’s latest achievement was winning the nationwide boS tea competition in which he was required to create a unique design for the limited edition summer flavour can. his design was selected as the winner over 700 design entries and will be printed on 100 000 boS limited edition flavour cans this summer. his can was launched in cape town on thursday, 7 may 2015 at 6 Spin Street gallery and in johannesburg prior to that at museum of african Design.

44

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

cReative featuRe

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

45

cReative featuRe

#AMANDLA

46

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

cReative featuRe

i always begin the creative Process by finding common threads that tie all my work together in a cohesive manner and ensuring that i keeP uP-to-date with emerging technology,

in february, he showcased his animation work at the Design indaba expo 2015, as well as two products for everyday use he designed and created from Pvc pipes – a laptop stand and a desk lamp. in addition, he took part in the world Design capital 2014 competition where he presented the amanDla fist, a project he has continued to pursue long after the competition is over. these are but a few of the multiple projects he’s been involved in and around cape town. letebele creates art because he believes it’s his gift and purpose, it enables him to interrogate his existence which allows him to connect to the universe. he uses art and design to share feelings he can’t really express through emotions and language. for him, art is a process - a conviction and a way of letting go. as a multimedia designer, letebele is accustomed to using design practices ranging from tactile executions to digital. “i always begin the creative process by finding common threads that tie all my work together in a cohesive manner and ensuring that i keep up-to-date with emerging technology,” he explains. letebele aspires to create art that will bring about a universal state of african consciousness in the vast european/westernised world by triggering innate qualities within african people that can propel them into positions of socio-economic powers. he will do this through sharing knowledge and information and building a united universal platform where even the people from the third world boondocks, such as his hometown, can participate.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

47

# 1 0 S t o R i e S

EvERyOnE haS a STORy TO TELL

10 StoRieS

“#TenStories came to life after a conversation between me and a friend about our past and how we ended up in jozi. we spent almost three hours talking about our lives and as i make way home after that meet up, it dawned on me that beyond our stories there’s millions of other stories out there.

Soon after i decided to ask ten people to write their stories for me to post them on my account; and i was only going to do ten stories then move on to other things but i realized that the stories could continue and we can just have themes or topics. So why did i ask people to participate in this series? we go through a lot as people and sometimes we don’t realize how much there is to learn from each other as people so hopefully through these stories people can learn, be inspired, gain hope and have faith in their own paths. and hopefully these people writing and sharing their stories will get those participating to reflect on how far they’ve come in their own journeys. there’s still So much we want to cover through the #tenStories series so hopefully as we continue more people will before willing to share their own stories.” ~ Moeketsi Moshata

50

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

10 StoRieS

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

51

10 StoRieS

@lufunolove LUFUNO SATHEKGE stylist, wardrobe auditor all-round awesome human.

JHB | SOUTH AFRICA

bRingS you @lufunolove anD thiS iS heR StoRy: lufuno claire Sathekge... “my parents named me love and light. lemba (black jew) by blood, raised christian, born and bred in Soweto. Style enthusiast, jesus freak. lights up the room, spreads the love, true leo. i can find the funny in anything. the type of friend you can always count on in a time of need. happy go lucky, goofy girl. Proud of my roots and looking forward to what god’s will has in store for me. my best friend is a boy (10 years strong). i have a close sister circle. my family is suspicious about my lifestyle, but it’s just coz they don’t understand art. i’m the black sheep. i’m 1 of 5 kids, and an aunt to 4 girls and 1 boy. if i were to move from johannesburg it would be to new york or Spain (there’s something there). i’m crazy about all things africa. i’ve met and know my soulmate. i believe in love, marriage and all those sweet things. i’m tough as nails and not as scary as some people think i am. they call me ms brown.” :) #Lufuno #Love #MsBrown

52

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

10 StoRieS

@bombafire SHINKI BOGATSU photographer, creative husband & father.

VASTO | ITALY

bRingS you @bombafiRe anD thiS iS hiS StoRy: ePisode: #beinGadad | “in my personal experience as a father i would say that my “secret” is being constant and regardless of the situation at hand never “temporarily” change your teachings. i laugh and play with my children, but even in these moments, if and when my sons step across “barriers” they know they shouldn’t... i do not hesitate to reprimand them and turn that moment of sweetness into a “sour” moment. i find that being like this with my sons doesn’t confuse them on what i think is right or wrong. So like i often say to them in moments like those... “i’m perfectly fine with being their least favorite person in the world then, but one day they will grow up and thank me for the sour moments”. So i guess (personal opinion) being a father is nothing you can be taught. it all comes as you stumble along through smiles, cries, bruises, fever and the list just goes on. being the best i can be and trying to be my children’s hero is my ultimate “fathering dream”.” #SouthAfrica #meetsouthafrica #family #fatherhood #offspring #hisjourney #hispath #hisexperience #partsandpieces #histruth

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

53

j e f f

R i k h o t S o

phOTOgRaphy

Model: Itumeleng SOLAR Modise

PhotogRaPhy

56

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PhotogRaPhy

Model: Itumeleng SOLAR Modise Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

57

Model: Itumeleng SOLAR Modise

PhotogRaPhy

58

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PhotogRaPhy

Model: Itumeleng SOLAR Modise Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

59

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

2015/06/03

1:22 AM

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

2015/06/03

1:24 AM

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

2015/06/03

1:26 AM

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

2015/06/03

1:27 AM

t h a n D i e D o w e R y

nOmI hanDmaDE

q&a

Thandie Dowery is a New York-born, South African creative who specialises in crafting jewellery, dĂŠcor and stationery made from authentic shweshwe fabrics. By day, she works as a senior content manager for a creative agency, while her evenings are dedicated to growing her brand.

She is currently based in Cape Town where she hopes to pursue her brand full time.

66

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

q&a

when and how did Your creative JourneY beGin? My creative journey began back when I was a pre-teen. My mom taught me how to crochet and I never forgot it. I just grew up and got over it for a while. I eventually found my way back to it about a year ago, but it wreaked havoc on my 30-year-old hands and who wants arthritis at 30, right?! So I had to find a new creative outlet. That’s when I fell in love with shweshwe.

Well, I’ve always loved the material, but I only thought of using it recently.

what insPires You about the african continent?

I feel like we are always in a state of celebration. It’s in our music, our clothes, the way we carry ourselves, when we dance…it’s even in our fabrics! Our jovial spirit is a trait that weaves us together as a people. I feel proud to be a part of that.

what insPires Your work?

Rather than what, I think it’s more of who and that’s my mom. In fact, my brand is actually named after her. Nomi is short for Nomgcobo, which means happiness in Xhosa. I wanted to do something that embodies that. I feel that my brightly coloured products, whether given as a gift or bought as a whim purchase, will make people feel good. My mom always said I was great with my hands and knew I’d work with them one day – I think she was thinking more along the lines of doctor or engineer. Ain’t nobody got time for that! I had my eyes set on creating – writing, cooking, dancing…but that was ok with her too.

define Your brand ethos?

Nomi Handmade is a confident, vibrant and playful brand that makes any wearer stand out in all their bold and bright glory.

BEAUTY IS…? …all around us, but it’s easy to not see any of it with all the heavy stuff that’s going on in the world. I wish that everyone could recognise the beauty in others rather than just noticing surface, trivial things like race, nationality, weight…yada yada. Get over it. We’re all beautiful in our own way.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

67

q&a

68

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

q&a

Contact: thandie@nomihandmade.co.za | Orders or queries

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

69

D a v i D t S h a b a l a l a

S L ay I n g g O L I aT h

cReative featuRe

is a 26 year old designer and illustrator residing in johannesburg. he was a finalist on creative union, a reality show on vuzu tv in 2013. it was about the business of creativity and entrepreneurship. this is where he learnt the basics of events, exhibitions and the rigors of retail from his mentors wandile Zondo and galebowe “wireless g”. his quirky, light-hearted and versatile style coupled with his love for popular culture and current events led to him garnering an invite to be an emerging creative for Design indaba in 2014. unfortunately, he couldn’t fulfill the invite because of work commitments at the time. it’s this commitment to his design work that led to him being nominated for the iabSa bookmarks awards 2015 in the young gun category, they honour the finest talent in digital across all mediums. his biggest body of work which served as a catalyst for many similar online projects right now, was Run the world. this project was birthed by the brainchild to exist exclusively on the instagram platform, an illustration-a-day project honouring women who carry a beacon of inspiration in their respective walks of life. bringing the campaign to the public space by means of a physical exhibition served to physically share in the glory of the women profiled as well as paying homage to womenkind. David wanted to do something self-initiated, with real purpose, but not necessarily profit-driven. women’s month served as the perfect platform for me to create something with meaning that resonates with every South african. this year, Run the world 2015 goes further by David inviting some of the finest talent amongst female illustrators to help him illustrate some of the women he has chosen to profile.

72

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

Photography: Tseliso Monaheng

cReative featuRe

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

73

cReative featuRe

mandela tribute illustration

74

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

cReative featuRe

Run the world 2014

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

75

cReative featuRe

Rihanna | american oxygen

76

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

cReative featuRe

luthando “loot love” Shosha

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

77

m u S i c

RaDIO! 123

p h o t o g r a p h y b y: a l e s s i o l a r u f fa

80

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

81

muSic

Formerly known as Impande Core, Radio123 is reemerging into the market with a reinvented cool and fresh approach. impande core as a band was an extension of a social consciousness youth movement that existed to promote the work of artists within the community of vosloorus, johannesburg.

Radio!123 is the transmission of basic and simple sound. Radio!123 is an ultra-native innovative urban funk band: MandelaPop.

WHAT IS MANDELAPOP? mandelaPoP is a Post-1994 type of sound, and can be described as the Soundtrack of Democracy and Reconciliation. it is a Sound that appeals to our Rainbow Spectrum. what does Radio!123 want to achieve with mandelaPoP? mandelaPoP is the preservation and continuation of the legacy of those who dedicated their lives to the new South-africa that we are all enjoying, by using music as a medium to bridge cultural gaps.

Radio!123 has developed to represent South-africa as a whole on an international scale and has upholds the mandate to be a brand that will serve to inspire ordinary South-africans from all walks of life.

Radio!123 is set to become the single voice of the people artistically to depict the everevolving johannesburg art scene. their first single “amazing masses� will be released august 2015.

follow Radio!123 on twitter

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

@weareRadio123

muSic

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

k . c H O k O e

phOTOgRaphIc chROnIcLES Of SELf

RetRoSPec tive

- K. Chokoe Taking a self portrait is an experience that is difficult to put to words. It’s an uncanny play on infinity. It’s an eternal stare into one’s own eyes.

The modern selfie however is a pedestrian and by now prescribed exercise in hysteria.

All the same I am not better just because I take a few ‘real’ self portraits a year. But the results of this restraint are evident.

The emotion is pure and wide on the spectrum of human sentiment. The lapse in time makes it a worthwhile process of reflection.

The intention to capture something deeper than surface beauty makes for a lasting narrative.

I am always moved and inspired by the palpability of self portraits of past and present artistsacross all mediums.

There is something beautiful in the audacity and the simultaneous vulnerability to say: Through my own art, by my own hand: this is me, take me as I am.... or don’t.

86

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

RetRoSPec tive

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

87

RetRoSPec tive

Self Portrait - K. Chokoe

88

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

RetRoSPec tive

Self portrait with Lena

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

89

RetRoSPec tive

“Thlogo ya bogobe bo fodileng”

90

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

RetRoSPec tive

Self Portrait - K. Chokoe

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

91

n a i j a

E m E R g I n g I L L u S T R aTO R

illuStRation

Born in a small town in Nigeria. Udegbunam TBJ is an emerging visual artist.

Since putting pencil to paper as a kid, he knew his passion was to become an artist. after completing his secondary school education as an art major student he went on to acquire his bachelor of fine&applied arts degree from the university of nigeria nsukka. tbj has completed extensive works both digital & traditional as a decorative painter, muralist, graffiti artist, typo graffiti artist, urban fashion stylist and custom typographer amongst many.

Presently based in lagos,nigeria. his number one source of inspiration is everything african. he loves creating in the styles of mixed-media realism, afrofuturism/symbolism.

94

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

illuStRation

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

95

illuStRation

96

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

illuStRation

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

97

b u l u m k o

wORDS

p o e t r y b y: b u l u m ko n ya m e z e l e

PoetRy

Untitled Bulumko Ka Nyamezele

100

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PoetRy

I may not remember, but I am sure that of the most beautiful places that I’ve ever been is inside my mother’s womb. I was once blessed with four years around my girlfriend’s mind and she spoke galaxies into my heart and It still pumps up stars whenever I think about her and all the wounds I left behind. I used to be a hero.

Way before my sister heard boys barking and condemned all men to the hound, I used to slay nightmares for her and carry fairy tales in my pencil case. Her smile was the only chip I ever needed to have a crack at a better life.

Dear Rose, I miss you and all the gods you introduced me to as I tried to worship you like a shipwreck in the middle of a desert. You once said romance is what we

named the things that keep changing form, the loopholes we’d use to sneak out of

each other’s hearts and into another’s arms. I promised you an apartment amidst the clouds but never considered the rage of solitude and the indiscretion of sun rays.

My Love, I questioned the silence between us and yet whenever I’m alone it is the

memory of you that keeps me company. You offered me your heart and in return asked that I transfuse eternity back into your fragile limbs so that you carry me

back into myself whenever I had forgotten what you meant to me and everything that I had taken from you. Yours, are the lips that add a filter of love to my bad days

and your beauty has built sphinxes of your loveliness around the vocal folds in my larynx. You breathed hieroglyphics into my lungs as I bowed to kiss the emotions which you had blessed with a home.

There were days where I’d stare at you, admiring how you had survived three life sentences and still had the audacity to look enchanting as though I had never touched you. You gave birth to three lifetimes and now they creep around the house,

wandering between your patience and compassion. You gave me a future and loved me enough to let me name the stars

Dear god I have forgotten how to listen to her. My ego has robbed me of my mother’s

tongue and I mumble my fears in-between her thighs. Lord save us from the broken

man that name us with the same lips that desecrate our heavens. Free the women

which remain captive in the slave ships of our tongues. Rename the kaffirs that we never dared to fight for deep inside the townships of our broken black hearts.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

101

P a L e s a m o t S o m i

afRIcan pROvERbS | phOTOgRaphy

PRoveRbS

104

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PRoveRbS

feed

No one gets a mouthful of food by picking between another person’s teeth.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

105

PRoveRbS

106

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PRoveRbS

hunger Hunger is felt by a slave and hunger is felt by a king.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

107

PRoveRbS

108

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PRoveRbS

Sharing One shares food, not words.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

109

PRoveRbS

110

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PRoveRbS

Patience patience can cook a stone.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

111

PRoveRbS

112

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

PRoveRbS

unity

Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable.

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

113

t i i S e t S o

SIbahLE chILDREn’S bOOk SERIES

Sibahle Magazine_issue02.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

2015/06/03

1:10 AM

bOOks

ZAR 200.00

“Tshomo ya Tiisetso”

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE IN SESOTHO, ENGLISH AND XHOSA foR QueRieS / PRe-oRDeRS contact info@Sibahle.com

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

117

b O O k

c L u b

ThE SIbahLE bOOk cLub Launch // fIvE cITIES

m ay 2015 e v e n t s

eventS

120

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

eventS

Jhb | Host - Sibahle

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

121

bOOk cLub

cPt | Host- Luyanda Peter

122

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

bOOk cLub

Pe | Host- Ntsika Tyatya, Creative X

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

123

bOOk cLub

london | Hosts- The 1980 Alliance

124

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

bOOk cLub

dbn | Hosts- Nowadays Poets / Izimbongi Zesimanje

Sibahle | vol. 2 | june-july 2015

125

- online exhibition -

ILLUSTRATION | PHOTOGRAPHY | VISUAL ART