Exploring South Africa Through Kristin-Lee Moolman’s Surreal Photography

Kristin-Lee Moolman: Celebrating African Creativity through Photography

Kristin-Lee Moolman’s powerful portraits have been making waves in the fashion and photography worlds. The South African artist showcases creativity and beauty in Africa, effectively countering the negative stereotypes often associated with her home country. Featured prominently is a photo of Nigerian model Kemi Kayode, wearing Bottega Veneta, captured for the 2019 fall/winter issue of the arts and culture magazine Document Journal.

A Focus on Diversity in African Photography

For the same shoot, Moolman worked with non-binary DJ and model Caleb Nkosi (pictured). Moolman wants to showcase more diversity in Africa, particularly the LGBTQ+ community.
For the same shoot, Moolman worked with non-binary DJ and model Caleb Nkosi (pictured). Moolman is dedicated to showcasing more diversity in Africa, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.

Dreamy Aesthetics and International Recognition

Moolman's dreamy, washed-out esthetic -- seen in this 2017 photo, "Three copper pennies" -- has gained her international recognition. In 2020, Moolman won the Rudin Prize for Emerging Photographers, which celebrates under-recognized artists.
Moolman’s dreamy, washed-out aesthetic, exemplified in her 2017 photo “Three Copper Pennies,” has garnered international acclaim. In 2020, she won the Rudin Prize for Emerging Photographers, which recognizes under-appreciated artists.

Connecting with Identity and Authenticity

Moolman says that for many years, she worked on generic commercial fashion shoots. But by embracing her South African identity and connecting with her roots, Moolman has developed a unique photography style that she says feels more authentic.
Moolman reflects that for many years, she engaged in conventional commercial fashion shoots. However, by embracing her South African identity and reconnecting with her roots, she has cultivated a distinctive photography style that resonates with authenticity.

Engaging with Music through Visual Art

Moolman worked with Belgian-Congolese rapper Baloji on his nine-minute music video "Peau de Chagrin/Bleu de Nuit." This photo, entitled "A family portrait" is a still from the shoot.
Moolman collaborated with Belgian-Congolese rapper Baloji on his nine-minute music video “Peau de Chagrin/Bleu de Nuit.” A still from this project, titled “A Family Portrait,” exemplifies her artistic vision.

In conclusion, Kristin-Lee Moolman’s photography beautifully represents the complexities and beauty of African identity. Through her innovative work, she continues to challenge norms and elevate underrepresented voices in the creative industry.


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