The Night is Young

(2018 - Ongoing)
In South Africa the final year of high school is known as ‘matric’. For learners, the annual ‘matric ball’ carries huge significance and is a highly anticipated rite of passage.

Despite South African students diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, for them and their families alike, these balls are very significant events. Learners will typically spend large amounts of time and money meticulously planning their outfits, getting suits and dresses custom made, and will spend hours on the day in preparation for the night. The ‘arrivals’ to the balls are also highly anticipated, as this is the first opportunity to show off their carefully curated looks. At most schools, a red carpet will be laid out, roads are closed off, and crowds of spectators- relatives, friends and even people from the surrounding neighborhoods- will line up to cheer on the students as they disembark from a range of vintage and customised cars.

The motif of a high school ball is typically linked to ‘American’ proms, which for most, is a theme that is instantly recognizable and identifiable. Inspired by the rich discourse of iconic American imagery, I am intrigued by the way that these ideas play out in a contemporary South African context. While the deep impact of Apartheid remains, in the country’s complex and visibly divided space there is something pure and democratizing about these occasions. Over the course of this project, I have worked with a number of schools representing learners from very different backgrounds. At the many balls I have attended, the constant is the sense of energy and joy- these events are testament to the student’s achievement at realizing this final chapter in their high school careers and are celebrated accordingly. In an increasingly uncertain world, I hope these images can function as a portrait of young South Africans tentative optimism. I want viewers to be reminded of that instant when you look and feel your best, the energy is palpable and anything feels possible.