Photography & Design
Spotlight on South Africa's Photographic Maestros: IK14 & 1802
by: Ashley Ncube
In the vibrant South African art scene, two names reverberate with a unique resonance: IK14 (Lesedi) and 1802 (Nhlanhla). Armed with vision, precision, and boundless creativity, these photographic virtuosos have turned the ordinary into the extraordinary through their lens. Here’s an appreciative look at their masterful artistry.
IK14 (Lesedi): Transcending the Mundane
IK14, or Lesedi, has a knack for transforming everyday sights into exceptional works of art. Each photograph Lesedi captures is a narrative unto itself, sparking curiosity and evoking a spectrum of emotions. Lesedi's shots are more than just pictures—they're a gateway into the vibrant, pulsating heart of the world around us.
Lesedi's deft application of colour, light, and shadow imbues each image with a unique aura. It's as if the subjects of his photography are bathed in a distinctive luminescence that whispers their stories into the viewer's consciousness.
1802 (Nhlanhla): Crafting Visual Poetry
On the other hand, 1802, known in personal circles as Nhlanhla, is a poet of the lens. Each of Nhlanhla's photographs is a verse in a visual poem, a stanza in a photographic symphony that sweeps you off your feet. Whether it's the intimate detail of a dew-kissed flower or the sweeping grandeur of an urban landscape, Nhlanhla captures it all with a precision that leaves you in awe.
Nhlanhla's photographs are a celebration of life, capturing moments that might otherwise flutter by unnoticed. With a discerning eye and a steady hand, Nhlanhla captures these fleeting instants, freezing them in time for us to admire.
IK14 and 1802: A Harmonious Duet
While IK14 and 1802 each bring their unique styles to the table, their collaborative work becomes a harmony of two distinct voices. Their portfolio, aptly named "1802xLK14", is a testament to their combined artistic prowess.
The stunning collection showcases the perfect blend of Lesedi's knack for encapsulating everyday magic and Nhlanhla's skill in capturing the poetry of life. The result is a body of work that vibrates with energy, pulses with life, and tugs at the viewer's heartstrings.
Conclusion
In a world where we're constantly bombarded by visual stimuli, IK14 and 1802 remind us of the beauty that lies in pausing and appreciating the world around us. Their photography isn't just about beautiful images—it's about experiencing the world through a fresh, unique perspective.
Lesedi and Nhlanhla aren't just photographers; they're visual storytellers who remind us that every moment holds a story waiting to be told. As long as artists like IK14 and 1802 are out there capturing these stories, we can rest assured that the world's beauty will never go unnoticed.
Thanks for reading 🎉