vuyo mabheka

Vuyo Mabheka (b. 1999) is a visual artist and photographer based in Johannesburg. He was introduced to photography in 2017 through the Of Soul and Joy Photo Project. Mabheka's work, particulary in his series Popihuise, explores his personal childhood experiences and the complexities of life in South African townships, reflecting on themes of memory, fantasy, and community.

Growing up in the township of Thokoza, Mabheka navigated a childhood marked by instability and the absence of a father figure. Through collages that weave together elements of his community and family snapshots, he captures the essence of township life, highlighting the resourcefulness and resilience of its inhabitants. His art draws inspiration from the Xhosa term Popihuise, a vernacular adaptation of the Afrikaans word for 'dollhouse', symbolizing the imaginative play and creativity found in childhood.

Mabheka's innovative approach and autobiographical storytelling earned him the 2023/2024 Images Vevey Special Jury Prize. His work, recognized for its originality and emotional depth, continues to foster connections and understanding through the lens of shared experiences.