The great irony of the Halls #BreatheForIt Masterclass Campaign is the quirky “Ungapheli uMoya” hashtag, loosely translating to “do not lose your breath/energy” depending on the contextual use of the South African isiZulu language. Ironic, due to the breathless works of art of the 9 mentees including our next spotlight profile, Dustin August of the Dada Collective, all who have championed unique character to the square of SA Creativity, Braamfontein.
Dustin August is a Freelance Photographer, Illustrator, and Graphic Designer with a portfolio as brave and eclectic as his passion to constantly evolve how he interprets his inspirations: people. Dustin analyses each of his muses and recreates their essence through his eyes. He seems to take elements of neo-Asian/African/Realism to bring his art to life. His experience as a candidate architect shows in his immaculate detail in structure. As an architecture graduate from the University of Pretoria, his work ethic shows just how dynamic his approach and style extends throughout his portfolio.
In a passionate Instagram post, Dustin unpacks the nuance of Queer Representation with his mural stating:
“HERE is my mural for HALLS BREATHING SPACE 2.0. It is about being authentic and taking up space. It focuses specifically on queer bodies in the creation of space and is a reminder that we don’t only take up space but that we exist in the very fabric of the spaces that make up the city. (In this case, Braamfontein) The mural is a portrait of two queer men, composed and framed yet also soft and lingering they represent us, a body of people who are fearless, courageous and defiant. They are the Vanguard’s. They stand to salute and also to remind us that there is more to come, that they have left their mark and that they reflect all of us. The piece is layered both in its meaning and its experience and attempts a new way to creating street art.”
Dustin August, Instagram
Connect With Dustin August
Twitter: @DustinAugust
Instagram: @dustinxiii/@thedadacollective.
Website: https://www.behance.net/dustinaugust_
Halls Image Credit: Themba Mbuyisa
Special Thanks To: Capacity Relations
