Methodology

Celeste McKenzie is a social documentarian who uncovers the stories of communities, highlighted by her notable ethnographic study on the Khomani San. Her work is rooted in deep engagement to bridge diverse audiences to the intricate stories defining human experiences, paralleling the exploration of urban graphic heritage.

Alet Pretorius combines photojournalism with visual storytelling to capture the essence of varied environments. As a freelance photographer and lecturer, her work spans publications and educational institutions. Her documentation of significant cultural sites, like the Nelson Mandela Theatre and Mandela Village, reflects her commitment to preserving historical narratives through photography, echoing the documentation of urban heritage.

Robert Harland uses photography to document the macro, meso, and micrographic scales at which cities and urban places function through their graphic objects. He documents urban character by observing visual qualities that define why and how places look the way they do. His use of photography plays an essential role in facilitating collaboration between those seeking to define urban graphic heritage.

Fidel Thabang Mosupye brings a personal touch to his photography and video work, focusing on significant life events and community narratives. His local insight, especially in projects like the photo documentation of Nelson Mandela Park in Mamelodi, showcases his dedication to capturing authentic stories, aligning with the broader effort to document personal and communal identities in the context of urban heritage.

Yolandi Burger investigates urban graphic heritage, place branding and commemorative spaces within a South African context. Her work emphasises the impact of graphic heritage on shaping urban identities and emotional ties to places. Through photo documentation, she explores the narrative power of commemorative spaces, offering insights into cultural preservation and the dynamics of urban places.

Everardt Burger is researcher in the field of civil engineering with a keen interested in urban planning and design. He is an informal photographer and local guide for the research team. His unique blend of technical expertise and visual storytelling enhances the project, through marrying urban planning and design with the cultural and social fabric of urban places.

Market Photo Workshop Graduates Tsepiso Mahooe, Matsediso Dichaba and Khaya Njabulo Malinga documented the Nelson Mandela Bridge in Braamfontein during an informal workshop with Alet, Celeste and Yolandi. Their participation brought innovative perspectives to the project, showcasing the bridge’s significance through their lenses. Their contributions highlight the importance of individual perspectives in capturing urban narratives.