12th Official Language

"This installation was part of the show Literally and Figuratively: Text and Image in South African Contemporary Art held at the Stevenson Gallery in Cape Town.

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South Africa's 11 official languages reflect its rich cultural diversity. Post-apartheid, the 1996 Constitution recognised these languages—Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English, and seven others—to promote inclusivity and equality. Previously, only English and Afrikaans were official. This multilingual policy honours indigenous heritage while uniting a historically divided nation through linguistic recognition.

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This installation honours a possible 12th official language: slang—born in the streets, shaped by rhythm, resistance, and belonging. It speaks in many tongues at once, defying borders drawn by history. Here, languages meet, mingle, and morph—a living testament to the power of connection over division. Culture can never be balkanised.

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Slang also makes us smile..."

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^BM