Zanele Muholi

Hailing from South Africa, Zanele Muholi gained recognition in the early 2000s through photography that aimed to depict the lives of black LGBTQIA+ individuals in a way that went beyond stereotypes or victimization. Muholi's work challenges hetero-patriarchal ideals and representations, portraying the subjects of their photos as confident and beautiful individuals who courageously exist in the face of discrimination, intolerance, and often, violence. While Muholi's intimate portraits of others propelled their international career, their powerful self-portraits cemented their reputation. This book, accompanying an exhibition, showcases the entirety of Muholi's photographic and activist work, including six new essays, a glossary, and a timeline.