African Mask Art Photography

Описание: Dirk Mostert, once a photographer in the Air Force and Director of Photography on several Leon Schuster films plus three other feature films and numerous TV drama series has taken a creative turn in his career—"painting with light." Brendon visits Dirk at his studio, where he showcases his latest project: capturing African masks through fine art photography using a unique light-painting technique. In total darkness, Dirk opens his camera shutter and carefully "paints" sections of the mask with a handheld torch, highlighting textures and contours to reveal new artistic dimensions.

His studio is filled with masks collected from across Africa, which he sees as more than just objects—they hold deep cultural stories. Dirk aims to elevate these masks beyond catalog photography by using minimal light, constant lighting, and creative filters. He integrates models into his work, preferring real people over traditional models to emphasize authenticity. One woman was so moved by her portrait that she left the studio in tears.

Dirk's work now hangs on walls, framed in vintage frames, and appreciated as fine art. For him, photography is more than capturing a moment—it’s about telling a story. Even with masks that have hollow eyes, Dirk invites viewers to see beyond the surface, into the story behind the image.