William Kentridge’s exhibition: “The Head and the Load” is a powerful tribute to the forgotten heroes of Africa’s colonial past. The production recently showcased in Johannesburg, which combines music, dance, and visual art, mesmerized audiences with its depth and emotion. William Kentridge is a South African artist who uses different mediums to provide insight into Africa’s pre and post-colonization.
Kentridge’ creates socially conscious art, which addresses complex issues like identity, history, and politics, is well-known. The Head and the Load” is no different as it delves into the untold stories of the African porter who served in World War 1 during the colonial period. These porters carried heavy loads of supplies and equipment across treacherous terrains, often sacrificing their own lives in the process.
The production begins with a haunting visual display of the names of African porters who lost their lives during the war. This serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifice and contributions made by these often-forgotten individuals. The visuals are accompanied by a haunting soundscape, which sets the tone for the entire production.
Kentridge employs his distinctive animated drawings during the performance to narrate the experiences of the African porters throughout the war. The projection of these drawings onto a large screen creates a dynamic and immersive experience for the audience.
In addition to the visuals, “The Head and the Load” features an incredible cast of dancers and musicians who bring the story to life. The dancers move in sync with the animated drawings, creating a stunning visual display that captures the audience’s attention. The music, which blends African rhythms with classical and contemporary sounds, is equally powerful and emotional.
“The Head and the Load” is a production that brings attention to the stories that historians have left out, making it one of its most striking aspects. By focusing on the experiences of African porters, Kentridge sheds light on a forgotten part of Africa’s colonial past. Acknowledging the contributions and sacrifices of individuals who have been left out of the narrative for far too long is an important step.
Image courtesy of Artsy
“The Head and the Load” reminds us poignantly of the human cost of war and colonization. It serves as a tribute to the resilience and strength of the African people and their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. The production’s ability to blend different art forms creates a unique and powerful experience that will stay with audiences long after the performance has ended.
William Kentridge’s “The Head and the Load” is a must-see production that offers a powerful tribute to Africa’s forgotten heroes. Through its combination of music, dance, and visual art, the production brings to life the untold stories of World War I. The emotional impact of this production is a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the contributions of Africans in World War I.
