Seismography of Struggle: Towards a Global History of Critical and Cultural Journals, curated by Zahia Rahmani. 

This itinerant exhibition and research project highlights non-European critical and cultural journals as tools of resistance in anti-colonial and liberatory movements. Spanning the late 18th century to 1989, the exhibition explores the seismic impact of events such as the Haitian Revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall. With a focus on decentralizing European perspectives, Seismography of Struggle has been exhibited worldwide, evolving through ongoing research efforts.

Now at Zeitz MOCAA, the exhibition delves into the rich legacies of Black-led and anti-apartheid publications in South Africa, showcasing influential magazines like DRUM, Zonk! and Staffrider, alongside Sechaba, DAWN, and Mayibuye (aligned with the ANC). Academic journals such as Kronos from the University of the Western Cape are also featured. The exhibition is presented in part as a dynamic film installation.

Seismography of Struggle was previously screened online as part of Zeitz MOCAA’s Radical Solidarity Summit in 2020 — a week-long gathering addressing urgent issues and exploring alternative futures in the context of the pandemic. The summit fostered connections among organizations, artists, curators, and activists committed to supporting the arts from Africa and its diaspora. 

Zeitz MOCAA’s curatorial and educational programming is generously supported by Gucci and the Mellon Foundation. 

Seismography of Struggle is furthermore supported by the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS).

Seismography of Struggle: Towards a Global History of Critical and Cultural Journals

Seismography of Struggle - Stop 3

Seismography of Struggle - Stop 2

Seismography of Struggle - Stop 1

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is the first major museum in Africa dedicated to contemporary art. We collect, preserve, research & exhibit cutting edge contemporary art from Africa & the Diaspora & host temporary exhibitions from around the world

Seismography of Struggle: Towards a Global History of Critical and Cultural Journals

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA)