The Photography Department at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) marked a significant milestone with the successful showcasing of its first-ever Honours Photography Exhibition, proudly exhibiting the outstanding work of the students. It was held recently at the Satellite Gallery, City Campus in Durban. The highly anticipated event brought together students, parents and lecturers to celebrate the department’s growth and commitment to excellence in photography.
This exhibition showcased diverse photographs examining technology’s impact on society and human experience. DUT’s photography programme combines theory and practice, training students for careers in photography, including commercial, fine art, documentary, and digital media.
“Beyond Reality: See the Unseen” showcased five compelling themes. From the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and photography to street photography capturing Durban’s contrasting faces, digital manipulation, conceptual explorations of unemployment’s psychological effects, and surreal reflections on mental health, this exhibition invited viewers to challenge their perceptions and explore the unseen depths of reality.
Nocebo Bucibo, a Programme Coordinator and lecturer from the Visual Communication Design warmly welcomed guests, including parents and fellow lecturers, to the exhibition. She then introduced the five talented students behind the showcase: Masibulele Nako, Luvuyo Mntambo, Dumo Xaba, Manelisi Nene, and Asanele Ndleko.
DUT alumna Thalente Khomo, a successful commercial photographer, attended the exhibition and shared words of encouragement with the student exhibitors. “Success is a non-linear journey in photography, perseverance separates the achievers from the aspirants. Rejection is not the end, but a new beginning-a chance to refine, and recharge,” she said.
Jonathan Parenzee, a lecturer from the Photography Department thanked the students for allowing him to be part of their journey and expressed his honour at witnessing their growth. He also thanked the DUT community for the opportunity to lecture and mentor the students.
Nocebo Bucibo presented two prestigious awards, recognising the outstanding achievements. She explained that the awards were based on the student’s portfolios and conceptual work. The runner-up award went to Dumo Xaba, while Asanele Ndleko took top honours as the Top Achiever.
Asanele Ndleko, a talented conceptual photographer, shared her insights, stating that she realised the importance of perseverance and commitment in achieving success. She also emphasised that staying committed to one’s goals and consistently putting in effort and determination are crucial to overcoming challenges and ultimately succeeding.
Author, poet, and photographer Dumo Xaba discussed his use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in photography, highlighting its potential to enhance creativity. Xaba sees AI as a facilitator, simplifying technical aspects and empowering photographers to focus on artistic expression.
“I am very thankful to the lecturers and support staff at the Photography Department for their continual support, teachings, and patience through this journey because there has certainly been hurdles and mountains to overcome, and they know how much we have worried them,” he said.
Nomthandazo Xaba, who was beaming with pride, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the DUT community for nurturing her son, Dumo Xaba’s, talent. “My son spent a lot of time doing his work, driven by his critical thinking, analytical mind, and perfectionism. I am grateful to DUT for providing an environment that has fostered his growth and excellence,” explained Xaba.
Lungelo Mazibuko, a first-year Visual Communication Design student, reflected on his experience: “I saw a close connection between photography and my course, which made it feel more personal. I understood most of the artwork and gained inspiration for my own work, especially from Luvuyo Mambo’s ‘Silent but Loud’ art.”
The students attending the exhibition displayed keen interest, engaging enthusiastically with the exhibitors and gaining valuable insights.
Pictured: Five Honours students from the Photography Department, along with their lecturer, exploring the title called “Beyond Reality: See the Unseen”.
Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
