/ WYAA’23
Relebogile Malaza, How Are You Today?, 2023, Video
Relebogile Malaza
How Are You Today?
'How Are You Today?' is a monochrome photography artwork that encompasses 30 captivating photographs in a video format, accompanied by an additional 20 private images. The creation of this work stemmed from the desire to ignite conversations that have long remained dormant. Through this work, I aim to establish a needed dialogue, prompting a profound exploration of one's mental well-being. Hence, the title, 'How Are You Today?’, it serves as an invitation to embark on this journey of introspection.
This work was deeply personal, originating from intimate dialogues within my own home. These conversations emphasised the idea of mental health challenges being shrouded in secrecy, particularly within black communities. As I delved further, I became aware of the inadequate care available to marginalised individuals, presently and historically. Consequently, my work aims to emphasise mental health within black communities, emphasising and unpacking layers of why this secrecy exists.
The absence of faces in the photographs is a deliberate choice, meticulously crafted to allow the viewer to insert themselves, thereby encouraging introspection and allowing them to project their own experiences, for a more personal connection.
Furthermore, I continued to an enlightening conversation with Dr. Michael Reid. Together, we explored the nuances and language barriers surrounding mental health discussions within black communities. Extensive research, coupled with a thought-provoking survey, individuals feedback prompted meaningful changes, such as incorporating additional South African languages to dismantle language barriers that hinder open mental health conversations. Essentially, dialogue informed my work and continues to inform others.
As the project progresses, I am to reach out to a broader audience. Thus far, the survey has touched the lives of 50 individuals, and 11 individuals have engaged in an honest reflection about how they are in the video, additionally, I have reached out to mental health organisations to further deepen the impact of this work. 'How Are You Today?' is an ongoing dialogue.
The symbolism of the curtain employed in this artwork serves as a metaphor a canvas, the interplay between light and darkness, mirroring the intricate workings of our minds. By embracing a timeless black-and-white aesthetic, I evoke a sense of history, subtly reminding viewers of the historical inequities surrounding mental health care within black communities not just the generational gap that exists but emphasising the interplay of two disparities that exist in conversation.
In an attempt to gift back to the muses of the work I designed a journal which is not for view, for the dignity of the muses and to show the suppression and secrecy that exists. Reflections from the muses adorn the walls, capturing their experience of engaging in this work and I hope you as viewers you will too.