I first saw Talia Ramkilawan’s work at the Michaelis Graduate exhibition in 2018 – fabric woven in tapestry, vivid colours emanating as figures; and although I can’t quite remember precisely the content of the works, but that it was showcased a sculptural installation, I do know I would never forget her medium. Talia’s principle medium is rug-hooking, an astounding portrayal of crochet tapestry. While Talia’s work manifests across installation, performance and video – I find myself ever-enamoured by the mastery it takes to construct vast images in richness, texture and meaning through well placed and tightened threads of fabric. 

The simultaneous simplicity and nuance of a textural, crafted medium within Talia’s artistic dialogue arises as a deeply personal and intimate expression; her lived experience as a South African Indian, queer woman navigating the 21st century. Dialogues of family trauma, sexuality, the dynamics and complexities of identity temper her work- and in Talia’s recent solo exhibition, the depths of unbridled pleasure. Currently exhibited at WHATIFTHEWORLD Gallery, ‘Pleasure Over Pain’ features an array of personal reflections through rug-hook tapestry; Talia has frozen in time the memories and experiences that edify her continual pursuit of pleasure – joy – love, and the sensorial ways in which these are experienced. 

A striking aspect of ‘Pain over Pleasure’ – and a function in all of Talia’s work – is her ability to convey senses such as taste; placing the viewer into her world, and into the richness of experience from Talia’s perspective. Whether it’s the food woven into the picnic scenario between lovers and friends in ‘I’d spend everyday with you/ if it’s enough to make you mine’, or the appearance of Wembley Roadhouse in Athlone – the iconic, family-style diner – in ‘Double hotdog with whopper sauce and a falooda’, Talia evokes the transience of pleasure as a delicious taste – whether its food, or sex – or community and connection; all these form Talia’s personal commitment to joy, and in a way offers the view the same call to action.

Talia Ramkilawan is one of the most important artists in the country – yes, as a cultural communicator, but above all else, simply for who she is – the channel for a deeply original, exquisite artistic essence that remedies the rigidity and plainness of contemporary art.

‘Pleasure Over Pain’ is on until the 26 November at WHATIFTHEWORLD Gallery, 16 Buiten Street, Cape Town City Centre

Written by: Holly Beaton

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