The Cow Artworks was the hottest place to be in Joburg’s trendy Parkhurst last Thursday: Famed broadcast personality, actor, author and now photographer Eric Miyeni launched his latest literary offering, A Letter from Paris – a collection of essays and photographs capturing his visit to the City of Light in 2007 – at the jazzy venue, which was packed to the rafters.
Cellist Kutlwano Masote provided the music as guests mingled in the gallery taking in Miyeni’s black and white photographs on the walls. The French Ambassador to South Africa, Jacques Lapouge, was introduced as the guest speaker.
Praising the book and its approach, which, for once, has an African observing and commenting on European culture, La Pogue said, “Black people have been brutalised for centuries. To heal we need moments to be proud of, we need something that focuses our attention in the world to find joy, and the will to be better and successful.” Acknowledging Miyeni’s well-known outspokenness Lapouge added, “we find it interesting that someone like you could experience our capital city during the Rugby World Cup”.
When it was his turn to take the floor, Miyeni sincerely thanked Ambassador Lapouge, and paid tribute to the former French Ambassador to South Africa, Denis Pietton, remembering him for his “easy smile and deep understanding and love for this country”. Miyeni included IFAS Director Laurent Clavel, and Alliance Francaise’s Frédéric Jagu in his thanks for supporting the work.
“I hope you like the work,” the author quipped, “and if you don’t, write vigorously in protest!” Miyeni honoured his mother Mavis, who was present, “for all the goodness” in him and for teaching him to “stand on his feet”.
Wrapping up, he reminded guests that the walls were filled with his debut photographic work and playfully advised readers to read his book the “traditional way”: “patiently start where the book begins and work you way through to the end”.
Post the speeches the DJs took over and the real party started. Even Joshua Lindberg was spotted popping over to the gallery while on his evening walk with his dog!
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Book details
- A Letter from Paris: Essays and Photographs by Eric Miyeni
EAN: 9781770101722
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