5 minutes with photographer Justice Mukheli - ‘I have achieved my dreams'
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The art of film and photography has a way of telling stories words simply can't. The visual arts can pull you in and mesmerises you in a way that is unexpected.
In a one-on-one with TRUELOVE, photographer and filmmaker Justice Mukheli tells us more about himself and his loved art.
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How did life in Soweto, where you grew up, influence your career choice?
I used growing up in Soweto as a resource. I tap into for inspiration and lived experience to give the work that I do more depth.
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What is it about photography and film directing that fulfils and gives you a sense of purpose?
Photography and film have been beautiful artistic mediums for me because they have become an extension of how I see the world beyond reality and celebrate with others the history and nuance of my life as well as those of other black people who have been overlooked.
What made your professional debut in your industry?
I used to work in advertising, where I saw a huge gap in representation of how we are looked at and portrayed as black people.
There weren't enough black photographers I could brief on projects that targeted blacks. That led me to take an interest in photography. I then met a producer who suggested that I should try film. The rest, as they say, is history.
Which artist or photographer inspires you?
Locally, I'm inspired by musician Anatii. He is well-rounded. His work has depth and his music is layered with textures of culture and our heritage. I am also drawn to visual artist Cinga Samson's work. I admire their work.
Your twin brother, Fhatuwani, is also an artist. How has it been working with him in the same industry? What sets your brand apart from his?
My brother is amazing at his work and he inspires me. As much as we are twins and work in the same field, we both have different artistic voices. The subjects and themes we explore and unpack are different.
We also have different purposes and intentions with our work.
Opening Studio Mukheli with his brother
You opened Studio Mukheli with your brother in September. Tell us more about it.
We opened the studio shortly after returning from Morocco on a project, we were working on as photographers. Together with a group of friends, we started a project called I See a Different You a few years ago.
But after that, we didn't work together for a while until recently. After photographing a recent campaign, our love for working together was rekindled. Upon our return, we formalised the studio as a collaborative duo on special projects as photographers, film directors and artists.
What social dialogue and issues do you aim to address through your work?
Currently, I am exploring two themes. The first is masculinity and redefining it for myself. As an '80s baby, I was born in an era that was transitioning into a time when sexuality was a topic and conversation the country took on and created a space for everyone to be whatever and whoever they wanted to be in their sexual orientation. The second theme is spirituality. Being raised Christian, I felt that finding my religion and experience connecting with my ancestry was limiting, which I am exploring through my work.
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How he would like to be remembered
As someone who inspired others to see that it is possible to achieve anything you want if you work hard and are consistent. I have pursued and achieved my dreams relative to what was meant for me.
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