IU Eskenazi Museum of Art Acquires Works by Visual Activist Zanele Muholi
The Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art at Indiana University has acquired four works by South African photographer Sir Zanele Muholi (b. 1972). Made internationally and in South Africa since 2012, the self-portraits depict Muholi in different public and private spaces during their travels, often with added props that convey both personal meanings and cultural commentary related to issues of race, identity, politics, and inclusivity. These powerful photographs address the history and visual language of portraiture while also confronting representations of Black and LGBTQIA+ people. The acquisition of these works supports the museum’s strategic mission to diversify its collection and was made possible thanks to the late Raymond and Laura Wielgus, whose dedication to the arts and generous support of the Eskenazi Museum continues to advance the museum’s mission.
