Klop Klop – Identity and the Brightly Coloured Past exhibition opening

To mark the third official exhibition in the Under the Aegis physical space, we are proud to present the debut exhibition by Half & Halve, titled Klop Klop – Identity and the Brightly Coloured Past.

Klop Klop explores the intersection of freedom and pain, celebrating what it means to be coloured in South Africa through the lens of the Kaapse Klopse (Cape Minstrel Carnival). Born out of a history of oppression, the Kaapse

Klopse has evolved into a powerful form of cultural expression, a vibrant performance of identity that transcends its painful origins. This project engages intimately with the coloured community, capturing both their voices and performances as they are enjoyed today.

By further exploring the complexities of the community and directing a spotlight on the lived experiences of troupe members, Klop Klop moves beyond mere documentation to explore themes of coloured identity, legacy, the creolization of a community in the Global South, and the commercialization of culture. This project seeks to bridge the historical gap in the narrative of coloured heritage by presenting a modern, joy-centered portrayal of a marginalized community. At the heart of this exploration is the Kaapse Klopse - a lively, grand tradition that has come to symbolize the

resilience of the coloured community and their ongoing fight to openly celebrate their culture and to gain further recognition within the broader historical landscape of South Africa.

Klop Klop is an evolving body of work, spanning across multiple mediums in order to thoroughly explore the Kaapse Klopse, the people that make up the troupes, and the carnival’s role within the coloured community. As a photographic work, Klop Klop captures the troupe members at the height of their grandeur; spotlit on stage, adorned in sequined garments and decorative face paint, performing for a crowd. The moments crafted in the photographs showcase the Kaapse Klopse as it exists in Cape Town today: a celebration of a history remembered, a culture ever evolving, and a people

who continue to fight for their space, their art, and their joy.

The exhibition will be on view until August 6th, 2025, we warmly invite you to stop by and experience this beautiful show!