A New Art Exhibition at Constitution Hill Celebrates 30 Years of Democracy in Thokoza

I Put My Hand On My Chest To Feel My Heartbeat is a new art exhibition at Constitution Hill that shines a spotlight on the vibrant community of Thokoza through the lens of its youth. The showcase is curated by Of Soul & Joy (OSJ), which is an educational programme dedicated to empowering youth through photography. On show is a range of personal stories and visual narratives captured by some of the country’s most promising emerging photographers. The exhibition runs from 1 February to 31 March 2025. Here’s what you need to know.

Thokoza art exhibition at Constitution Hill — Photography and collage by Vuyo Mabheka

Life through the lens of Thokoza youth, then and now

This new photography art exhibition in Johannesburg is curated by Lesole Tauatswala, a Constitution Hill Creative Uprising Hub co-ordinator and seasoned multidisciplinary artist. The series of works offers a glimpse into intimate moments and displays of creativity that tell the stories of Thokoza and its residents. over a 30 year period. Both past and present OSJ students photographed the ordinary and extraordinary scenes of daily life and navigating through the township.

“I Put My Hand On My Chest To Feel My Heartbeat serves as an entry point into a complex narrative, where each image encapsulates the pulse of this vibrant community,” says Jabulani Dhlamini, OSJ Project Manager. “Through the voices of these young photographers, the exhibition explores the personal and collective stories that make up the soul of Thokoza. It’s an introspective journey into the heart of the township, where themes such as identity, heritage, love, spirituality, and family are interwoven to create a multifaceted portrait of life in this part of South Africa.”

Featured artists include Zwelibanzi Zwane, Xolani Ngubeni, Teboho Mabuya, Vuyo Mabheka, Tadiwa Mokono, Limnandi Paca, Lunathi Mngxuma, Siyabonga Mhlanga, Fuwe Molefe, Lehlohonolo Sigaba, Anele Ntshangase, Sibusiso Bheka, Thembinkosi Hlatshwayo, Tshepiso Mazibuko, Life Ngubeni, and Sikelela Mdilikwana.

Join artist walkabout and special events

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the exhibition and the Of Soul & Joy (OSJ) collective with walkabouts and panel discussions featuring the participating artists. These events will provide deeper insight into the creative process behind the works and the significance of Thokoza’s youth in shaping the cultural fabric of South Africa.

Walkabouts are scheduled in mid-February and will be confirmed on Constitution Hill’s social media pages. A panel discussion will run on 1 March 2025, while a second discussion will form part of Constitution Hill’s annual Human Rights Festival on 21 March 2025.