Boemo Diale - No Matter How Far I Run

10.06.23 - 24.06.23
Solo Exhibition at
Kalashnikovv Gallery,
Johannesburg

Exhibition Statement

The power of prayer through colourful expressions; the idea of a cyclic loop through generations - history and human experiences are not linear, but rather circular, with events and circumstances echoing themselves over time. Within this body of work, Boemo Diale captures the notion that certain patterns, behaviours, or characteristics tend to repeat or resurface across different generations.

Each image acts as self reflection with consideration to the past, present and future, dreams and manifestations. Through vibrant hues and compositions, Diale aims to create visual narratives that evoke a sense of spirituality and transcendence by meddling in bizarre imagery, San rock art, African symbols of devotion and intuitive mark-making. The attention given to each visual element becomes a form of devotion - an act of reverence that captures the essence of prayer.

Serving as a vessel to carry these prayers and meanings, the utilitarian pot is a motif rendered in warm and cool tones, combining metaphors to represent the interplay between introspection and connection. Colours are layered and intertwined, creating depth and movement, symbolising the fluidity of prayer as it weaves through our lives.

Through these variations of metaphor in practice, Diale considers if it is possible to break the curses that play on a loop across generations. She suggests that prayer transcends religious boundaries - re-contextualising it as a way to navigate through universal longing for meaning. By using her practice as a mode of mimicking, Diale has created a form of personal devotion; an expression of vulnerability, hope, andgratitude and protection, bordered by prayer.

Born in 2000 in Johannesburg, Diale is currently studying Film and Television at the University of Witwatersrand and has had work featured in the following group exhibitions: “Re-form”, at The Atelier, Johannesburg, and Cubicle Series at Everard Read, Cape Town (2023). Her first solo “Permaculture” was held at Kalashnikovv Gallery, Johannesburg (2021) followed by “Pink Room”, an installation and performance at P72 Projects, Johannesburg (2021). “No Matter How Far I Run” is Diale’s second solo exhibition with Kalashnikovv Gallery.