Seconded By: Silke Hullmann
Ukubuta is a personal reflection on my place in the world, how I see myself and how my life experiences have shaped me. Ukubuta is a Bemba word that describes the everyday child play, in which we learn our place in society and how we interact with each other.
My images investigate different aspect of playing house and tell stories of childhood, adolescence and adulthood. Drawn from old stories, they explore stages women and man assume through out their lives.
Ukubuta gives me space to reflect on my experiences, identity and purpose as an artist. Allowing for play creates imaginative images, that help me make sense of the world.
Ibukisha
Ibukisha or ‘remember’ celebrates the wisdom of our ancestors that is guides my live.
Chiminene
Chiminene or ‘standing’ reminds us to stand tall with grace and self-respect.
Umukoshi
Umukoshi or ‘neck’ urges us to embrace life over material belongings and is based on the Bemba saying Sunga umukoshi ubulungu ta bwa yafiya ukusnaga.
Nabwinga
Nabwinga or ‘bride’ speaks of the teachings a young woman receives to become a wife.
Ukutontonkanya
Ukutontonkanya or ‘ reflective thinking’ reminds us of the need of self-reflection to enjoy personal growth.
Kafundisha
Kafundisha or ‘teacher’ draws on ancient wisdom to advice and guide the next generation.
Umupashi
Umupashi or ‘spirit’ creates the ancestral connection with land and reminds us of our duty to care and preserve its richness.
Imishishi
Imishishi or ‘hair’ – natural hair is a powerful statement of belonging
Ichicuma
Ichicuma or ‘wealth’ reflects on the different types of wealth that create value in your life – family, knowledge and possessions.
Chikashana
Chikashana or ‘lady’ speaks to the adornments that communicate ones standing in society, tell ones life story and individuality.
