01/Welcome
25 Feb 2025
welcome
Specific Pages: Blog template
Welcome— to the official lovely bunch of coconuts online home of Arthur Dlamini’s photography archive skipitypaps. We are thrilled to present each curated collection that captures the essence of human experience, nature and performace through Arthur’s lens.
Here you can shop framed and unframed prints, postcards and novelty merchandise. We will also use this platform to keep you updated on new releases, events and studio offerings, as well as offer an inside look into AD’s processes, stories and features.
artist’s note
Welcome Home
I’m honored to share my sacred gift with you. This work weaves together a profound tapestry of spirituality and creativity. Your presence is a blessing, and I look forward to having you experience the depth and beauty of our art.

what’s new
Our website now features a diverse array of categories:
- The Jazz Gallery: Arthur’s dedication to immortalizing live performances allows both viewers and performers to experience the depth of artistic immersion.
- Batho: A thought-provoking journey into the complex emotions of individuals from all walks of life.
- Mvelo: A reminder to tread carefully, as nature is alive.
- Travel: Engage with uncharted thoughts by taking the road less traveled.
- Ngisemanzini: An exploration of works manifested through divine guidance, unpacking age-old indigenous African spiritual practices and their connection to Arthur’s creative process.
- AD Reserve: A personally curated collection of Arthur’s favourite uncategorised images, captured through exploration, meditation, and experimentation.
Gifting Shop: you may purchase pieces from any of these categories in postcard form, available on our gifting shop, along with new merch offerings, such as tote bags and caps.
Installation Gallery: We now offer a look into the homes of collectors & establishments housing AD Originals.
Upcoming Offerings: We give you easy access to our calender, to keep you in the loop of shows, exhibitions, galas and news features.
Blog: The new information portal you’re currently on, where you will find deeper insight into Arthur Dlamini’s process, thoughts and much more.
Commissions: You may commission an AD Original of your favourite performer at a specific concert, theatre or live show.
Exhibitions: Read all about past and present exhibitions. Find out more about the inspiration and musings behind each collection and where they are showing or have previously shown.
featured collection: duality (with ryan shava)
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, symbolising opposing yet interconnected forces.
Ryan Shava is known for his vibrant and almost dreamlike depictions of figures and portraits combined with Arthur Dlamini’s hyperrealistic monochromatic portrait photography creates what could be called the best of both worlds. Dlamini’s expressive photographs explore themes of identity, culture, and social justice. His work often incorporates elements of Spirituality, traditional African art, and symbolism.
This visually dynamic body of work created by Arthur Dlamini and Ryan Shava emphasises the balance and independence of opposites. The interplay between reality and imagination invites us to contemplate on the complexities and paradoxes of life by embracing this duality.

ad studio at 44 stanley

We now have a physical gallery space, in Johannesburg, South Africa – which serves as home for the Arthur Dlamini archive.
Here, you will find a rotation of exhibitions all curated in-house, showcasing Dlamini’s catalog with the additional element of tying into a sensory experience, playing with sounds and smells, all to compliment and guide you through the visual experience.
Now showing: A variety of pieces from AD’s Ingoma offering, as well as more from his spectacular jazz archive. You will also get a peak into Dlamini’s ability to convey stories of dance, performance and music, through photography.
with thanks

We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our audience. Since the opening of our studio, your unwavering support has been truly humbling. From attending exhibitions and live events to engaging with our work online, every interaction with the AD brand means the world to us.
Your prayers, affirming words of support, and reshares on social media have amplified our reach in ways we never imagined. Every like, comment, and recommendation helps independent artists like us thrive. Your purchases—whether a fine art print, a tote bag, or a simple postcard—allow us to keep creating and sharing meaningful work.
Supporting small businesses goes beyond just buying; it’s in every thoughtful message, every shared story, and every moment you take to spread the word. We see it, we feel it, and we deeply appreciate it.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of creativity, connection, and storytelling. May the stories we tell outlive us.
With gratitude,
Stay connected
We invite you to explore the website and our physical space at 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark – immerse yourself in the offerings, and connect with us for any inquiries and commissions. Stay updated on upcoming exhibitions, showcases, and events by subscribing to our newsletter. Our inner circle will be the first to hear about promotions and competitions.
Instagram: @adgallery | @itsarthurdlamini