02/Duality Part II
25 Feb 2025
Introducing the second, and latest instalment of the ongoing collaborative effort between fine art photographer Arthur Dlamini and painter Ryan Shava, titled ‘Duality: Part II’. This collection represents a profound fusing of mediums, styles and niches by marrying two opposing concepts, for a uniquely creative output.
THE CONTINUATION
Part one of this collaboration saw great success, both locally and internationally, inspiring the collaborators to revisit the concept and expand on the collection, introducing over 8 additional pieces.
The debut offering focused on reinterpreting the most popular pieces from Arthur Dlamini’s black and white archive, into a more imaginative version, while Part Two introduces Duality – Showcasing both the monochromatic images and the colourful interpretation.
Part Two of this offering more clearly outlines the border between the opposing mediums and follows a theme of Reality vs Imagination.
PART II | WHERE TWO WORLDS MEET
The duality between day and night is a universal concept that has been observed and revered across cultures, philosophies, and traditions. This fundamental dichotomy represents the cyclical nature of life, symbolizing opposing yet interconnected forces—light and shadow, reality and dreams, clarity and mystery. It is within this dynamic interplay of opposites that the collaborative art collection between fine art photographer Arthur Dlamini and painter Ryan Shava finds its essence.
At its core, this collection is a visual symphony of contrast and cohesion, where hyperrealistic black and white portraiture meets bold, vivid strokes of paint. The fusion of Dlamini’s starkly expressive photography with Shava’s colorful, dreamlike brushwork results in a body of work that not only captivates but also provokes deep introspection
dissecting the differences
Arthur Dlamini is renowned for his monochromatic portraits that delve into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. His photographs possess an intense realism, often incorporating elements of African spirituality, traditional symbolism, and the raw human experience. Each image he captures is a window into the subject’s soul, exposing vulnerability, strength, and history in a way that is both haunting and beautiful.
In stark contrast, Ryan Shava’s work is a burst of imagination and color. His paintings, often dreamlike and expressive, are an exploration of perception and imagination. Known for his vibrant compositions, Shava transforms everyday subjects into ethereal visions that blur the lines between reality and fantasy. His ability to translate human expression through color and form introduces an additional layer of depth to Dlamini’s already powerful portraits.
Together, the two artists have crafted a unique medium through the merging of both worlds. Dlamini’s photographs ground the work in reality, while Shava’s paintwork lifts it into a space of possibility and transformation. Their combined approach honours the balance and independence of opposites, reminding us that duality is not a division but a dialogue
the journey towards
The collaborative process between Dlamini and Shava was one of mutual respect and artistic synergy. Each piece begins as a black and white photograph, carefully composed and emotionally charged. Then, Shava adds his signature—splashes of color that dance across the canvas, redefining the contours of the image and adding new dimensions of meaning. The paint does not simply sit atop the photograph; it interacts with it, enhancing and expanding on certain features while obscuring others, creating a layered narrative that shifts with each viewing.
This interplay between reality and imagination invites the audience to contemplate the complexities and paradoxes of life. It asks us to embrace the beauty of contradiction, to see beyond the surface, and to recognize that what is seemingly opposed can, in fact, exist in harmony.
In many ways, this collaboration mirrors the broader themes of human experience. Just as night gives way to day and day fades back into night, our lives are shaped by cycles of joy and sorrow, clarity and confusion, action and stillness. This collection does not seek to resolve these dualities but to celebrate them, offering a visual meditation on the balance between what is seen and what is felt, what is known and what is imagined.
This collection serves as an invitation—to explore, to question, and to appreciate the intricate dance of opposites that defines existence. By embracing this duality, we not only gain a deeper understanding of art but also of ourselves.
view the collection
Browse the first three installments of Duality Part II, currently on show at Path Nomad, 44 Stanley – Until February 23rd.
Following which, Duality will be at AD Studio for Private Viewing.
Updates on the collection will be issued through our Newsletter.
