Umdloti-based artist Jiten Ramlal has created a collection of fine art photographs called Diamonds in Our Blood. We chatted to him about the inspiration behind these striking pieces
Q: DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE AN ARTIST?
A: From a young age, I was captivated by the power of visual storytelling. While I didn’t always envision myself as an artist in the traditional sense, I was deeply passionate about creating and expressing ideas through various mediums. My journey began in graphic design, where I discovered the potential of combining design principles with photography, videography and animation to tell compelling stories. This multifaceted approach to art became the foundation of my career and led me to embrace the role of an artist wholeheartedly.
Q: WHAT MEDIUM HAVE YOU USED FOR THE DIAMONDS IN YOUR BLOOD COLLECTION?
A: The first pieces are fine art photography. I hope to expand into a fusion of mixed media techniques in future volumes. I’ve used digital photography and aimed to capture the intricate and multifaceted nature of the collection’s theme, using light and texture to evoke a sense of depth and emotion.
Q: WHAT INSPIRED THE COLLECTION?
A: I was inspired by the complex history and stigmatisation of the diamond industry in South Africa. I witnessed first-hand how the negative connotations associated with diamonds affected the growth of the industry and the lives of South Africans. I was hired six years ago to advertise jewellery and rough diamond sales. In that role, I had to immerse myself in the diamond value chain, understanding everything from key players to the intricacies of diamonds as a commodity. This behind-the-scenes exposure provided me with a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective on the true value of diamonds, not just as a luxury item, but as a significant asset to every South African.
This collection represents a new narrative; one of hope and resilience. It symbolises the potential for a brighter future, where the true value of diamonds lies not just in their physical beauty but in the positive change they can bring to our community.
Q: HOW DOES YOUR PARTICULAR STYLE REFLECT THE STORY YOU’RE TELLING?
A: My artistic style for this collection is a deliberate blend of realism and abstraction, reflecting the duality of the diamond’s journey from its origins to its final polished form. The use of light and shadow plays a significant role in each piece, symbolising the transformation from darkness to brilliance. With bold, crisp black and white compositions printed on large canvases I aim to capture the multifaceted nature of the diamond industry and the layered stories of those it impacts, ultimately creating a rich, immersive experience for the viewer.
Q: HOW DO YOU HOPE VIEWERS WILL ENGAGE WITH OR INTERPRET YOUR ART?
A: I hope viewers will engage with my art on both an emotional and intellectual level. I want them to see beyond the surface beauty of the diamonds and connect with the deeper narrative of hope and transformation. I want my work to spark conversations about the history and future of the diamond industry in South Africa, encouraging viewers to consider the broader implications of their perceptions and actions. Ultimately, I hope my art inspires a sense of empathy and a desire for positive change, shining a light on the potential for growth and renewal in our community.
Details: IG: @jitenramlal; @svarga.artgallery
Text: Jennifer Campbell
Photographs: Shren Media
