Towards a New Visual Language

In 1994, Nelson Mandela was elected as the first president of a united democratic South Africa, ending 46 years of Apartheid. The so-called Rainbow Nation had a new beginning. That same year, graphic designer Garth Walker became interested in exploring the idea of “what makes me South African, and what does that look like”? For some time Walker had been collecting and archiving ‘street art’ from cities and townships throughout South Africa. The archive is now likely the largest and most comprehensive known. And so, the idea of a print magazine was born.

In 1995 the first issue of an experimental graphics magazine was published in a limited print run of 300 copies. iJusi quickly developed a cult following worldwide as a platform for creatives and design students to explore their own thoughts on a ‘new way of seeing the culture that surrounds us’. The print magazine is now 34 issues strong (and counting). Each themed issue is unique and subjects covered range from porn to Mandela, the mythical African typeface to tattoo art, death to human rights, and found photos, to Jacob Zuma and the Covid pandemic.

See selected spreads from all the issues here:  www.ijusi.com

There is a huge variety of prints to choose from

  • Africa Uber Alles

    Africa Uber Alles

    R4,950.00

    Experience the essence of ijusi’s unique style in this graphic design, harmonizing various visual languages and cultures. Depicting an Nguni cow symbolizing wealth, paired with traditional Zulu vuvuzelas, the artwork encapsulates cultural richness. Above the typography, a Duiker antelope and Africanus dog hold cultural significance in Zulu tradition. This piece seamlessly weaves symbolism, culture, and visual artistry, reflecting the dynamic spirit of ijusi’s distinct design aesthetic.

  • African Helmut Dog Mask

    African Helmut Dog Mask

    R4,950.00

    Explore the rich diversity of African Masks, including face masks, helmet masks, and headdresses. Among them, helmet masks uniquely empower wearers with spiritual significance through symbolic carvings. Animal motifs, like this exceptional dog-shaped helmet mask, connect the wearer with the spirit of animals, fostering a unique communication channel. Originating possibly from the Luba peoples (Congo) or the Makonde (Tanzania), this rare and intricately carved wooden piece adds a distinctive touch to any collection, suggesting a one-of-a-kind artistic expression within the realm of African art.

  • African Robot Man

    African Robot Man

    R12,995.00

    Explore a unique artwork that blends mid-1950s Japanese tin-plate toy robots with African artistic influences. During the 1950s, Japan captivated the world with its battery-operated toy robots inspired by the era’s fascination with space travel, Sputnik, and jet airplanes. These brightly colored, remote-controlled robots, often featuring flashing lights and sound effects, were highly coveted gifts for young boys. This drawing reimagines the iconic robot silhouette as a graphic outline, duplicated to create a striking positive/negative composition. The African influence is evident in the minimalist, rigid pose and the vibrant application of color using hand-made soft chalk powders and colored inks. The negative image effect is achieved with powdered graphite, commonly used for lubricating locks and mechanical items. This artwork is a compelling fusion of nostalgic robotics and traditional African artistry.

  • Burned out Mercedes

    Burned out Mercedes

    R4,950.00

    Discover a glimpse of the unexpected along the N9 near Nieu Bethesda in the Cacadu District, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Photographed on December 24, 2016, this striking image captures a burned-out Mercedes C-Class, a stark reminder of an electrical or fuel fire incident. Explore the region’s landscapes and roadside rest stops, where this unfortunate event unfolded. Witness the resilience of the surroundings juxtaposed with the unexpected, offering a unique perspective on South Africa’s diverse terrain.

  • Cape Baboon Skull

    Cape Baboon Skull

    R4,950.00

    Explore the rich diversity of African Masks, including face masks, helmet masks, and headdresses. Among them, helmet masks uniquely empower wearers with spiritual significance through symbolic carvings. Animal motifs, like this exceptional dog-shaped helmet mask, connect the wearer with the spirit of animals, fostering a unique communication channel. Originating possibly from the Luba peoples (Congo) or the Makonde (Tanzania), this rare and intricately carved wooden piece adds a distinctive touch to any collection, suggesting a one-of-a-kind artistic expression within the realm of African art.

  • Cattle on the Compassberg Road

    Cattle on the Compassberg Road

    R4,950.00

    Discover the scenic beauty of Eastern Cape, South Africa with breathtaking views captured on Compassberg road. Witness cattle grazing around a serene dam against the backdrop of South Africa’s second highest peak, the majestic Compassberg. Photographed on December 26, 2016, this picturesque landscape offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history, dating back to Colonel Robert Jacob Gordon’s expedition in 1778. Explore Sneeuberge District’s natural wonders and historical significance through this captivating image.

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