The Inside Out Centre for Photographic Art celebrates the work of prolific photographer Roger Ballen’s surrealistic depictions of platteland life.
Best known in South Africa for his images of zef band Die Antwoord, American-born Ballen first came to South Africa in 1983 to do geological work exploring minerals in the countryside. With a passion for photography, he documented the buildings as well as the inhabitants who live on the brinks of South African society.
So struck by the poverty and the will to survive of a privileged minority of people, his photos took on a grotesque and psychologically dark quality. Using props and accompanied by sets, it became theatrical. With his work, he uncovers destructive myths about white privilege.
His unique style known as “Ballenesque” has found its way to galleries all over Slovenija, France, Australia, Denmark, Switzerland, the USA and more. It has also found a home in the Place of Gold where Ballen has now lived for over 40 years.
The centre was designed by architect Joe van Rooyen, a household name to Top Billing fans. It plays host to art exhibitions, installations and educational programmes with the goal of promoting art and photography in South Africa.
Venue: 48 Jan Smuts Ave, Forest Town, Johannesburg
Time: tbc
Cost: Various
Tel: 087 700 5998
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rogerballen.com
Instagram: @rogerballen
Facebook: @rogerballenphotography
