GIDA Journal Volume III Launch at PPC

28 May 2024, 16:30

“There’s a lot to be said for finding yourself and even more so for realising yourself through the existence of others.” Sabrina Roman perfectly incapsulates the truly South African principal of Ubuntu in the opening piece of GIDA Volume III. What being “a person through other people” really emphasises is the role of community. Whether it be Shelflife or Pot Plant Club (PPC), the support, influence and belief from our community has moulded us into who we are today and the path we will continue to forge.

This past Friday, we were invited by our friends at PPC to celebrate the launch of the third edition of GIDA Journal, which features a multitude of incredible contributors spanning across Southern Africa. With GIDA being a leading platform for contemporary African art, culture, fashion and literature, the night was filled with inspiring visuals and dialogue. The event itself felt like a glimpse into South Africa’s rich creative tapestry, where like-minded people were able to connect and celebrate the people and places which have shaped us.

Shot and curated by co-founders of the store, Luke Bell Doman and Salik Harris, Pot Plant Club’s feature in the Journal is a collection of photographs spotlighting the brand’s skateboarding roots. Here, the protagonists are shown against their familiar skating backdrop, all while wearing full PPC apparel and Nike kicks. Alongside PPC, other key South African contributors include Lukhanyo Mdingi, Wanda Lephoto, Thero Makepe, Jabulani Dhlamini, Thembinkosi Hlatshwayo and Lebohan Kganye.

The space created at PPC perfectly enhanced the stories told in this Volume, from the music to the food and drink on offer to the special edition tees. Both editors of the Journal, Momo Hassan-Odukale and Mira Makadie, provided deep insight into their journeys to GIDA as well as their experience on their short trip to Cape Town. The night was complete (as any good night should) with an after-party at Babbi.

About GIDA Journal Volume III:

Curated with a keen eye for authenticity and depth, Volume III showcases the works of renowned artists such as Lulama Wolf and Jöel Andrianomearisoa, alongside fashion editorials featuring celebrated designers Thebe Magugu, Lukhanyo Mdingi, and Wanda Lephoto. Each contributor brings their unique perspective, offering readers an immersive experience into the heart and soul of Southern Africa.

From intimate portraits of community life to bold reflections on masculinity and sexuality, the stories within Volume III are a testament to the resilience and creativity of Southern African people. Through vivid imagery and evocative storytelling, GIDA Journal invites readers to explore the complexities and beauty of contemporary life in the region, while celebrating its rich cultural heritage and traditions.

"Two years ago, GIDA embarked on a journey to tell creative stories from Africa that didn’t dominate the headlines. Instead, we focused on the people and communities shaping the continent’s flourishing arts and cultural scenes. From artists and designers to sculptors, writers, and thinkers, we celebrate those who make up the backbone of the current African cultural renaissance," said Momo Hassan-Odukale, Editor-in-Chief of Gida Journal. "Now, for Volume III, we turn to Southern Africa; making new discoveries while persisting in our mission to challenge dominant African cultural clichés. Volume III features contributors living across nine Southern African countries — Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros Islands, Botswana, and Angola.”

In addition to featuring the work of established artists, GIDA Journal Vol III also provides a platform for emerging talents from the region, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive representation of Southern African culture and creativity.