"Homelands" explores the experiences of two brothers, Donald
and Christopher Banda, as they reflect on the complexities of life
in South Africa. I befriended them when I undertook doctoral
fieldwork from 2012 to 2014 in Woodlane Village, a squatter camp
located in the wealthy suburb of Moreleta Park in Pretoria. I have
returned every year since then to chronicle their lives. Although,
the photographs are situated in the settlement and in the
townships surrounding Pretoria, they reveal more of a
psychological and emotional landscape than they do a physical
one. They speak of love and loss, of adaptation and resilience, and
of the yearning to live in community with others despite the forces
pulling us apart.
Pieter de Vos is a documentary photographer, facilitator, and engaged academic. He has a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Alberta. He has explored social issues such as poverty, social inclusion, and HIV/AIDS. His photos have been exhibited throughout Canada and have been featured by such media as Photo District News, the Globe and Mail, Photo Life Magazine, Alberta Views Magazine, the Edmonton Journal, and CBC Television.
In 2012 (ongoing), he initiated a photographic and narrative exploration of place-making and spatial justice in an informal settlement in Pretoria, South Africa.
Awards * PX3 2018 - Bronze Winner - Culture Category
* PX3 2018 - Bronze Winner - Abstract Category
* PX3 2018 - Honorable Mention
* PX3 2018 - Honorable Mention
National Pictures of the Year Awards Competition 2017 (NPAC)
Photo District News (PDN) Photo Annual 2018
Siena International Photo Award 2018
Tokyo International Foto Awards 2018
