Beyond the discourse of representation with Keabetswe Seema
Art prize winner Keabetswe Seema, is a visionary artist whose work transcends boundaries and challenges conventions. Through this interview Keabetswe delves into the profound significance of representation within the art industry, particularly focusing on the experiences of black women. With a keen eye for authenticity and intentionality, Keabetswe sheds light on the intricate challenges faced by artists seeking to authentically portray black womanhood in their art. She emphasizes the vital role of community support, intentionality, and unwavering authenticity in fostering meaningful opportunities for artists.
How would you introduce yourself to anyone that hasn't heard of you?
My name is Keabetwe Seema, proud to call Johannesburg my home and artistic haven. My journey began at the University of Pretoria, where I pursued a BA in Fine Art for four-years. And I have a home studio where I nestle myself in creativity.
How does your identity as a Black woman living in a postmodern society of South Africa influence your artistic perspective and the themes you explore in your work?
Everything about my practice is about the black female experience. I write my thesis on hyper visibility and invisibility of the black female body. I insert not only myself, I include the black female identities that I have lived with, in my work. I grew up in a very matriarchal family and my work is surrounded around postmodernism and fractured identity, fragmented selfhood, and kind of how black women’s identity is fragmented because of the society that it exists in. And it’s almost a combination of things. So we’re not only this one monolithic thing, I see myself as a gathering of these women and a gathering of the black female experience. I use my agency to explore different themes of Afrofuturism, spirituality, and how those things are important in the black female identity. It’s almost impossible to look at my work and not think of the black female experience in South Africa.
Can you speak about the significance of representation in the art industry, particularly for Black women artists?
It is very simple: the more of us are in the room, the more stories get told. The Black woman provides a unique outlook on the world, something no other identity provides. There’s something that no other identity can provide that we do. I think there’s a very unique approach that black women have, in terms of being in the art industry, because we experience things with intersection.
Have you faced any unique challenges or opportunities as a Black woman navigating the art industry, how are opportunities presented to you?
My first introduction to the art industry was an exhibition dedicated to black women called Thou Art Women by Mmarthouse back in 2018/17. This awakened me too how important young female representation is and how community or gathering of women gives us legitimacy.
One challenge I did face was the lack of black female educators at my university. I struggled feeling seen or underwood almost like I had to work 10 times harder to explain my work for a predominant white audience/ gaze.
We need more black educators that have time for young artists in their infancy stages to give advice and critique.
Can you discuss the role of your art in addressing social or political issues that affect Black women?
In a recent conversation with another artist, I reflected on the complexities of representing black women within art and the inherent social and political implications.
I believe that art serves as a platform for self-representation, agency, and self-definition, allowing us to reclaim narratives often misrepresented in mainstream spaces. These narratives encompass diverse experiences, acknowledging that each perspective is equally valid and important. Art also enables us to explore nuances of everyday life, such as body image and objectification, particularly pertinent to my focus on the commodification of black bodies.
Furthermore, I emphasized the ongoing marginalization of black women, highlighting the need to address contemporary issues alongside historical injustices. For instance, discussions on social media underscore the urgent need for dialogue and artistic exploration regarding societal issues affecting black women, from victimization to systemic inequalities. Through art, we can engage in meaningful conversations that challenge existing power structures and advocate for social change.
Have you encountered any misconceptions or stereotypes about Black women artists, and how do you challenge them through your work?
I’ve heard that we tell the same story , we are not monolithic, all our stories are unique even though their existence overlaps. There have been times where we are put inside the same buck – that it’s black women art. Why can it not just be called art? There exists levels of overlap, but you shouldn’t misunderstand that just because our stories overlap it’s the same thing.
What tips have you learnt that you can share with emerging artists on building a strong brand and establishing their presence in the art industry?
1 – Network. I am so big on going to openings , art fairs / galleries. Make connections with other artists, you can learn so much and give so much when you make yourself visible.
2 – Be on social media, show your progress, post your finished work , talk and connect with other artists on your dm’s. Start building those relationships virtually.
3 – Make quality work.
Talk us through the creative process of two / a collection of your artworks?
So, in my practice, spirituality is a cornerstone. Before delving into this piece, I was contemplating spiritual spaces, including altars and sacrifice. A friend gave me old Catholic calendars, and while the imagery was powerful, it lacked representation of black women.
This fueled my desire to insert myself into these spaces, blending Afrofuturism with historical and biblical contexts to assert my agency. The title, Matthew 28, verses 2 to 4, signifies resurrection and new beginnings, echoing my own journey of reclaiming narratives.
The eyes and hands in the artwork symbolize power and beauty of the black female body, challenging objectification and inviting viewers to see through a lens of appreciation. The gaze directly confronts viewers, a recurring theme in my practice, akin to leaving my signature – woven hairs, creatures, or roots – a reminder of my presence and perspective in every piece.
Beyond the discourse of representation, Keabetswe shares invaluable insights into navigating the modern art landscape. From crafting a distinct artistic signature to leveraging digital platforms for visibility, Keabetswe’s experiences offer a roadmap for emerging artists seeking to carve their niche in a rapidly evolving industry. Moreover, Kea's thoughtful approach to pricing and selling artwork reflects a commitment to both artistic integrity and sustainable livelihood.
