“Clay is very human in its behavior and I like to highlight that in my work, as well as my love for mythology, ancient civilisations and the gifts they have left us. There is something special about objects that are lost and then found again. They change in their absence. Mythology often allows for an easier transmission of queer ideas in this way." – Githan Coopoo.
Cape Town-based jeweller and sculptor Githan Coopoo uses playful and often sarcastic messages painted on clay accessories to sketch his relationship with the social notions around his queer and South Asian South African identity in Desi Casual Glamour. The handbags he has created are unafraid to push colour and form and, with the messages painted on them, oscillate between joy and melancholy.
Filled with cultural references and stereotypes around Indian and queer culture, the handbags are emblematic of Coopoo's pride and love for these cultures while the tongue-in-check messaging problematises the way overarching norms and aesthetic ideas exclude and impose themselves on these cultures.
Exhibition opening is on Thu, Feb 2, 18:00.
