Daleside: Static Dreams

Daleside, a formerly white community in Johannesburg's industrial suburbs, has become an isolated ghost town with a dwindling population. Commissioned by Rubis Mécénat, Clément-Delmas and Sobekwa's photographs depict the poverty afflicting Black and white residents alike as forgotten members of society stuck in a dead end. The images are presented alongside each other in a foldout book.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2020
Publisher: GOST Books

Daleside, nestled within the Gauteng Province, once boasted a predominantly white population, situated in the industrial outskirts of Johannesburg. However, its isolation has led to a gradual inward shift among its residents, transforming it into an eerie and desolate ghost town. Over the course of a decade, the population has dwindled, primarily consisting of mine workers and smallholders. This transformation has been documented through a series of photographs commissioned by Rubis Mécénat through their Of Soul and Joy program.

Clément-Delmass's images present dignified figures whose dreams clash with the harsh realities they face. In contrast, Sobekwa's landscape portraits offer no escape from the poverty that plagues both Black and white residents. These photographs challenge the deeply entrenched Black/white binary and shed light on the forgotten members of society who are trapped in a cycle of destitution, despite living in the shadow of the affluent.

Sobekwa's journey to Daleside was not without its surprises. Contrary to his expectations, he encountered the stark reality of Black and white residents experiencing the same poverty, often out of sight of the tightly guarded houses of the wealthy. The photographs in Daleside: Static Dreams are presented side by side in a foldout book, allowing viewers to engage with them individually or as pairs. Each image captures a unique perspective, offering a deeper understanding of the complex social dynamics at play in this once-thriving community.

Through these photographs, Daleside emerges as a poignant reminder of the disparities that exist within societies, and the importance of recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The images serve as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of those who have been left behind, and their ongoing struggle to overcome the systemic barriers that perpetuate poverty and inequality.

Weight: 706g
Dimension: 195 x 263 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910401521