THE CASSPIR PROJECT

An unprecedented undertaking comprised of multi-faceted installation, photography, oral history, and documentary.

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THE VEHICLE

The central element of the project is one of reclamation. The restored and refitted Casspir vehicle, its surfaces fully covered in elaborate, brightly-colored panels of glass beadwork, arrayed in traditional patterns was completed by artisans from Zimbabwe and the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, including women of the Ndebele tribe, known for their craftsmanship.

THE EXHIBITION and programming

 

The Casspir Project is a traveling multidisciplinary fine art exhibition that encompasses a variety of media including installation, photography, oral history, and documentary film, available to be presented in whole or in part.

The “Casspir” series, captured in Kliptown, South Africa is a cinematic portrayal of the Casspir vehicle in stunning and terrifying use. This series of photographs also feature the regalia textiles and the AK-47 beaded sculpture. 

The UN estimates that there are more than five hundred million small arms in circulation around the world. More than seventy million of those are estimated to be AK 47’s.

Ninety percent of all casualties in wars around the world are caused by small arms.

Eighty percent of those killed are civilians.

The textiles of the Casspir Project showcase the work produced by a network of artisans that developed into the colaborative backbone of the project. 

DOCUMENTARY

This 20-minute documentary on The Casspir Project includes historical footage, as well as personal interviews with South Africans about their experiences during apartheid. The film shows viewers how Ziman worked with South African artisans on beading the Casspir, and reveals the emotional impact of transforming an object of fear into an object of beauty. For more information about screening events and opportunities, please contact Programming Director Cindy Schwarzstein.