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Colourism: Shades of Africa

Zambian-born artist towela chawezi tembo (kams) explores African identity & culture through photography & curation. Promoting change, her work resonates globally.

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Total Price

$ 263

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Colourism: Shades of Africa

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Total Price

$ 263

In her first social documentary photo series at the tender age of 16, Towela “Kams” Tembo highlighted the impact of preference of specific skintones over others and how that affects different girls (and boys) in Africa and beyond. The sequenced pictures each follow the visual storyline of the collective, nuanced struggles of light skinned and dark skinned girls in a world while curating the story through photography from one of struggle to one of self-empowerment for young women of all shades of Africa.Make-up and Hair stylists : Abale and Samantha from Jovem Moda BW with Ketty MphandeWriter/Poet : Thabang SekapeFeatured Muses : Nancy Vandensteen, Bubuya Moesi, Resego Wame Otlhogile, AmantleSebape, Thabang Sekape and Prince Kevin JohnSon

Artist Biography

A Voice for African Identity Through Photography and Curatorial Vision

Towela Chawezi Tembo, known professionally as Towela Kams, is a Zambian-born artist hailing from Botswana who has established herself as a respected figure in Johannesburg’s vibrant art scene. Born in Gaborone in 1999, her journey into the creative realm began with formative experiences that would profoundly shape her artistic sensibilities and unwavering dedication to championing African narratives.
  • Early Life & Education: Details regarding Towela's upbringing remain somewhat sparse, reflecting a deliberate focus on prioritizing her artistic pursuits over extensive biographical documentation. However, it’s understood she cultivated an appreciation for visual storytelling from a young age, recognizing the transformative power of images to communicate complex ideas and emotions.
  • Career Trajectory: Kams possesses nearly a decade of experience across three distinct creative sectors – art curation, photography, and media production. This multifaceted background has equipped her with invaluable insights into how artistic expression intersects with broader cultural contexts.
Her professional path led her to collaborations with institutions like the Southwest Museum in Los Angeles, California, where she contributed to exhibitions dedicated to preserving and promoting the art, culture, and history of the American Southwest. This engagement underscored her commitment to fostering intercultural dialogue and broadening perspectives on artistic heritage. Furthermore, Towela’s work has garnered recognition from prominent Johannesburg galleries, solidifying her position as a rising talent within South Africa's contemporary art landscape.

Artistic Style & Conceptual Framework

Towela Kams’ artistic style is characterized by a thoughtful blend of photographic artistry and curatorial acumen. While precise stylistic descriptors remain elusive—a testament to her preference for conveying ideas rather than adhering rigidly to conventional aesthetics—her work consistently demonstrates an acute awareness of colorism, exploring the nuanced ways in which skin tone influences perceptions of beauty and identity within African cultures. This conceptual underpinning informs her artistic endeavors, prompting her to confront societal biases and advocate for inclusivity.

Notable Works & Exhibitions

Among Towela’s accomplishments is her impactful collaboration with the Southwest Museum, where she spearheaded a project celebrating Black beauty and challenging discriminatory standards of attractiveness. Her photographic series “Colourism: Shades of Africa” powerfully captures these themes, resonating deeply with audiences globally. The exhibition at Johannesburg Art Gallery further cemented her reputation as an artist committed to representing diverse voices and perspectives within the African artistic community.

Influences & Historical Significance

Towela’s artistic vision draws inspiration from Zambia's rich cultural heritage, blending traditional storytelling traditions with contemporary photographic techniques. Her work speaks to a broader movement advocating for media influence as a catalyst for social change—a conviction rooted in her belief that art possesses the capacity to provoke critical reflection and inspire positive transformations.

Looking Ahead

Towela Chawezi Tembo continues to pursue her artistic endeavors with unwavering passion and dedication. Her commitment to amplifying African voices through visual media ensures that her legacy will endure as a beacon of creativity, cultural understanding, and social responsibility.
towela chawezi tembo

towela chawezi tembo

1999 - , Botswana

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Photography & Art Curation
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Contemporary African']
  • Date Of Birth: 1999
  • Full Name: Towela Chawezi Tembo
  • Nationality: Botswana
  • Notable Artworks: ['Colourism: Shades of Africa']
  • Place Of Birth: Gaborone, Botswana
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