Zanele Muholi
Zanele Muholi is a South African artist and visual activist known for their significant contributions to photography and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Born in Umlazi, Durban, in 1972, Muholi's work primarily centers around black lesbian, gay, transgender, and intersex people, aiming to bring visibility and dignity to these often marginalized communities. Their notable photographic series include "Faces and Phases" (2006-ongoing), a powerful collection of portraits of South Africa's lesbian community, and "Brave Beauties," which celebrates transgender women and gender-nonconforming individuals. Muholi has exhibited extensively across the world. Institutions that have showcased their work include the Tate Modern in London, the Brooklyn Museum in New York, and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam.