Recognised as one of the most polarizing artists of his generation, Vusi Beauchamp pushes his audience to challenge the state of ideas and beliefs that we have come to accept as the social order with little or no interrogation as to how it impacts and depicts us as society. 

His most recent works, “Prisoners of WAAR” probes the unwavering stereotypes, exotification and the exploitation of black African bodies in particular by media and the participation of black folks in the narrative. A narrative that is rooted in colonial ideologies. His work often walking a fine line between offensive and palatable, offends the senses whilst probing issues that lay dormant. Themes of racial segregation that still exists post-apartheid, a racially charged society where the black man is still vilified and the black woman objectified for her body. Economic exclusion thrives in a society that remains unbalanced with the minority white population still controlling the means of production whilst exploiting the black masses. Beauchamp’s work speaks to the nuance of the lived black experience in South Africa. And though it sits uncomfortably for some, Beauchamp opens the door to necessary conversations in the quest for a better South Africa for all.

Black Pawn, a film by House on Fire. 

Directed by Christiaan Rautenbach 

Editor by Jamie Taylor 

DOP by Travis van Staden

Music by Kidwithamatch & UncleMonster 

Final Mix by Miquel Loureiro 

Grading by Christiaan Rautenbach