Biography
Luke Daniel is a social documentary photographer based in Cape Town, although he prefers to operate within the hidden corners of South Africa. As a visual raconteur who’s focus lies in the often overlooked or obscure elements within the diverse social tapestry of South African culture and life – he’s often working inside marginalized, fringe communities.
Exhibitions
His photographic works have been exhibited at the Iziko South African National Museum, as part of the Cape Town Month of Photograph. FNB Art Fair 2015 – Special Project Booth and the Kalashnikovv Galleries annual group photographic Showcase “seeing through the complexities of difference” November 2015.
Artist’s Statement
Abbreviated for “Tjappies van die point”
These portraits are a study of tattoo symbolism and aesthetic style, a further investigation into South Africa’sunique prison and gang culture. The subjects are prisoners from across the country, of various age groups and convictions, photographed after their release. Many of them will return to prison, as a direct result of their inability to reintegrate into society, coupled with the failure of the State’s aims at rehabilitation. The tattoos tell their stories – a physical chronicle of violence, crime, abandonment and boredom.
