Introduction:
Imagine a world where a camera becomes the artist’s brush, and each photograph is a masterpiece of emotion. Meet Mosa Malefane, a 25-year-old photographer whose journey from a small-town upbringing to an Associate Degree in Graphic Design at Limkokwing University has ignited a passion in photography that goes beyond just making money. It’s a passion rooted in change and preserving his family’s legacy. Malefane is on a mission to stand out, to create impact, and to be a visual scientist.
Q1. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what drew you to photography as a medium of expression?
[I am] Mosa Malefane (25) I attended my Primary at St. Theresa. Secondary and High School at Molapo. [I] Studied Associate Degree in Graphic Design at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. Change is what drew me to photography as a medium of expression. Most importantly my love for photography is not actually about money, it’s also about living the legacy of my Grandfather. All I want is to make a difference and be different. To achieve more and become a visual scientist.
Q2. Your photography is known for its powerful impact and emotional depth. What inspires you to create your pieces?
My big inspiration would be God and my Creativity as a whole. I give Credit to Nigerian photographers. It is because of them that I am where I stand today as a Visual Scientist (Photographer). What I strive for is mostly conceptualized photography, mood Boards, and planning. It’s not just about taking my camera to capture. I create emotions on set. If they are sad or happy I just play around with Mood
Q3. Could you walk us through your creative process? How do you approach a scene or subject to capture its essence?
Approach the scene, and subject to capture its essence. I would love to start with how I approach a subject, a better word would be (model) but I always Strive to create visuals or photographs with the most underrated and unknown people. I always look for people who have little or no history with any creativity in order to create, teach and direct the individuals. My photography grew because of conceptualized Projects, some were very personal to me-
Good Intentions 2019, was the very first Project that I worked on with a lady named Dineo Motsopa. The idea behind this was to actually teach people or Basotho that Visual Creatives at large Don’t practice adultery through this process of life. My photography is me, it is no more a career it is my life.
Going in-depth into the creative process in photography
In this process I met with Ntshediseng Marase, a very great and creative lady – we always worked on various moods depending on what she had on (clothes) that day. With her and the above-mentioned, we are still working together as a family.
Moving on, I came across this rich melanin lady-Bella Lebele, young-spirited and always eager to learn. We have embarked on a creative process of fishing concepts and re-creating them.
Mostly a big sister of Mind Lilahloane Lets’ela. Such a bubbly Person to be around most of the time. We always work with little or no concepts at all but we still come out clean. Emotionally she plays a big role in giving me pieces of advice on how to mix my love life and creativity because it is very difficult to merge the 2.
In Conclusion, there is an exhibition coming on the 23rd of September. BOTHO SELEMO SPRING CONVENTION. This is where all creatives are invited to showcases in the event. I will be partaking too. The venue of the event is Music Mansion Maseru West.
Q4. Your upcoming exhibition promises to be a visual feast. Can you give us a glimpse into what visitors can expect in terms of themes, subjects, or emotions portrayed in your photographs? -Describe BOTHO.
BOTHO is more like a study of humanities, but in the context, we give to the people to see what Basotho people do for a living, hobbies as creatives. Anyone is fine with what they wear but I Highly advise spring wear. The emotions portrayed in my Photographs and subjects will be explained on the big day. But is nothing Sad.
Conclusion:
Get ready to be captivated by Mosa Malefane’s photography, where emotions flow freely and subjects come to life. As he gears up for the BOTHO SELEMO SPRING CONVENTION on September 23rd, you’re in for a treat. BOTHO is a window into Basotho culture, a celebration of everyday life, and a burst of creativity. While the full range of emotions in his photos will remain a surprise, one thing’s for sure – it won’t be a sad affair. So, circle that date on your calendar and join us at Music Mansion Maseru West for a visual experience that will leave an unforgettable mark on your heart.