The idea that science fiction can be meaningfully applied to an African context was introduced to mainstream audiences by Neill Blomkamp’s 2009 blockbuster District 9.
Beyond the limits of genre cinema however, sci-fi tropes have also proven to be a rich source of inspiration for a number of Southern African artists – a method of examining ideas of identity, space, politics and history. We check out 10 of the best film-makers fusing art to science fiction.
Read more at theculturetrip.com
Athi-Patra Ruga, Invitation…Presentation…Induction , 2013. Wool and thread on tapestry canvas, 300 x 175 cm © Athi-Patra Ruga, courtesy of the artist and WHATIFTHEWORLD
Bridget Baker, The Botched Epic Attempt to Escape the Maiden, 2005. Lambda print, 180 x 180 cm © Bridget Baker, Photography: Sarah Nankin, courtesy of the artist
Chad Rossouw, Parklands: Fairview Crescent. 2013, C-print, 40 x 90 cm © Chad Rossouw, courtesy of the artist and Brundyn+
Cyrus Kabiru, Macho Nne 05 (Westgate). 2014, Pigment Ink on HP Premium Satin Photographic Paper, 150 x 120 cm © Cyrus Kabiru, courtesy of the artist and SMAC Gallery
Gerald Machona, People from Far Away (still), 2013. HD Projection, 15 minutes © Gerald Machona, courtesy of the artist and Goodman Gallery
Kiluanji Kia Henda, The spaceship Icarus 13, Luanda, 2006 © Kiluanji Kia Henda, courtesy of the artist and Galleria Fonti
Mary Sibande, A Terrible Beauty is Born, 2013. Digital pigment print, 110 x 321.5 cm © Mary Sibande, courtesy of the artist and Gallery MOMO
Michael MacGarry, Will to Power (still), 2006 – 2010. HD video on Blu-ray, 14 minutes © Michael MacGarry, courtesy of the artist and Everard Read
Pieter Hugo, Chigozie Nechi. Enugu, Nigeria, 2009. C-print, 152.4 x 152.4 cm © Pieter Hugo, courtesy of the artist and Stevenson
