Hypnotic Hillside, Eswatini
Multiple exposure photograph
Eswatini MMXVIII
Limited edition art photography print on archival paper
Made during an unforgettable photographic adventure in Eswatini in December 2018, this photograph holds a special place in my heart. It presents a psychedelic interpretation of a lusciously verdant Eswatini hillside, intricately interlaced via multiple exposure photography with traditional Swazi weaving – a local craft that utilises fibres derived from the same environment. The resulting image is a surreal yet harmonious blend of landscape and culture, reflecting the spirit of this lesser-known kingdom within the borders of South Africa.
The weaving's pattern breathes life into the landscape, creating an illusion of swirling motion that captivates and entrances the eye like the spiral disc spun by a hypnotist. The uniform graphic pattern induces a mesmerising effect, encouraging the viewer to lose themselves in the landscape's beauty. We feel a sense of the perpetual energy and movement found in nature.
The punchy greens and blues are emblematic of Eswatini's lush, hot summers – punctuated as they are by regular afternoon thunderstorms that drench the earth. At the same time, the natural colour and texture of the woven fibres subtly subdue the vivid colours, and infuse an organic texture that nudges a first impression more towards being a painting or illustration than digital photograph. It is simultaneously authentic and synthetic.
'Hypnotic Hillside, Eswatini' is a captivating artwork that creates a sense of allure and energy in any space it inhabits. It draws attention to the beauty found in this little corner of the world, and for anybody who has an attachment to Eswatini it would be fantastic to hang on the wall as a window into the magical kingdom.
This limited edition art print is available in three sizes, with only ten prints in each size. It is an authentic and unique addition to any art collection, verified (signed and numbered) on the blockchain with Verisart to ensure its authenticity. Printed on premium quality Hahnemühle German etching paper, it is available for worldwide delivery from my printing partners in Cape Town, London, or Dusseldorf.