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Tracey Derrick

England
1961-2019
She focused on photographing ordinary people from various walks of life, aiming to give them a voice and dignity through her work. Derrick preferred using minimal technical support to maintain the authenticity of her photographs.

Tracey Derrick, a South African photographer known for capturing the diverse cultures within the country, passed away on September 9, 2019.

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She was a photographer who dedicated herself to her craft full-time since 1992. During this time, South Africa was holding a referendum on ending apartheid, and much of her early work centered around the attainment of democracy in the country. As her career progressed, her projects began to merge her personal life with her socially-driven interests.

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She documented her journey through breast cancer using a digital camera, rediscovering her passion for colour intensity.

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Artworks

An image capturing the essence of farm labour.
Grape Hands
2003
7th generation on the farm Derrick lived on. He is Pietâs father-in-law and is likely over 70 years old, though he believes he's around 50. He has been sober for 15 years.
Hendrik Syster
2001
His work on the farm is a legacy, passed down from his father and grandfather. Despite having a matric from Riebeeck Kasteel, he faces challenges in progressing further.
Mzwakhe Mngxuma
2003
He passed away in 2003 from lung cancer. It's believed he was around 52 years old. A workers' graveyard, which held generations, was excavated to build a dam.
Oom Paul Heyns
2002
Jaena is Pietâs sister, one of eight siblings. The photograph captures their wedding, where Derrick was the only guest at the church due to transportation issues. A celebration at the farm followed the ceremony.
Paul & Jaena Johnson
2003
Winnie maintains an organic food garden with the help of GARC. She faces challenges like water scarcity and has resorted to cutting trees for firewood.
Winnie Fischer
2004
See our sources
Tracey Derrick: Official Site
Tracey Derrick Official