"EarthWorks," a photographic series by Tracey Derrick, sheds light on the everyday lives and enduring hardships of farm laborers in the Swartland region of South Africa's Western Cape. Through portraits of individuals such as Piet and Hendrik, Derrick captures the essence of the broader challenges that these workers face. Despite the transformations brought by the post-apartheid era, the series poignantly reveals the persistent abuse, exploitation, and struggles that characterize the laborers' existence.
Critical issues such as alcoholism, inadequate housing, insufficient wages, and insecure land tenure continue to afflict the community. Even well-intentioned laws designed to protect the workers have sometimes worsened their situation, leading to job losses and increased burdens related to housing.
Through her lens, Derrick intimately engages with various individuals in the region, offering a window into the ongoing struggles that define their lives. "EarthWorks" provides a profound commentary on the plight of those who toil to feed the nation, highlighting the bitter reality that the benefits of the new era remain largely out of reach for them. This series not only serves as a compelling visual narrative exploring the intricate socio-economic fabric of the Swartland but also underscores Derrick's deep connection with her subjects and her commitment to bringing to light the often-overlooked challenges faced by South African farm laborers.
