Dr Peter Magubane is a prominent South African photographer and anti-apartheid activist responsible for many of the globally renowned images that were captured during the gruesome years of apartheid that were imposed on many people of colour in South Africa.
As the news of his death that happened on 1 January 2024 broke the internet, many took to several social media platforms to share what a pivotal role this giant played and how his work and legacy will forever be treasured.
Taking time to honour the fearless legend’s work and the years he dedicated to making a change with his craft is 31-year-old award winning contemporary multimedia visual artist, Trevor Stuurman.
Trevor took to Instagram to share:
“Remembering Ntate Peter Magubane, legendary photographer and archivist, who captured 40 years of apartheid.”
He further included one of his quotes which read, “I wanted the world to see what is going on in South Africa. The only way to show the world was through pictures.” – Dr #PeterMagubane.
“He has left an undeniable photographic mark in liberating our beloved country,” stated Trevor.
Concluding his caption, Trevor shared, “May He Rest in Power — And we follow his mighty footsteps.”
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According to South African History Online (SAHO) – independent history education and research institute in the country – the Vrededorp veteran who died at the age of 91 carries the title of being “one of South Africa’s most distinguished award winning photo-journalists.”
While on his mission of storytelling the South African reality through his camera lenses, Peter managed to engrave his name within the wall of fame via various acts of bravery. SAHO further explained that in the early 1960s, Peter single-handedly held an exhibition making him one of the first photographer’s to exhibit in South Africa with his second one taking place abroad at the London School of Printing a few years later.
Securing him his icon title were some of the images he had captured at the 1976 June 16 student uprisings, as they “earned him worldwide acclaim and led to a number of international photographic and journalistic awards.”
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