Meokgo and the Stickfighter

Teboho Mahlatsi brings together the fabulist materials of the mythic pre-colonial past with the vibrant styles of contemporary Africa—as well as an admiration for Sergio Leone. Although his background is in pulsating Kwaito music, Mahlatsi has spoken of The Magic Flute as his inspiration, with a handsome prince setting out on a quest to rescue the daughter of the Queen of the Night. The prince here is Kgotso, a cursed young hero with a magical concertina who is enchanted by the sight of a beautiful woman who is then captured by Mokgodutswane, an evil horseman. A vision of Africa, infused by the mystical energy of magic.

There is something deeply mystical and magical about these mountains and the people there. I started imagining lyrical battles with traditional fighting sticks on wintry landscapes covered with snow.

Teboho Mahlatsi