Journey To Jazz Festival 2025: A Fusion Of Music, Art, And Cultural Reflection

As dawn breaks over the picturesque town of Prince Albert, the much-anticipated Journey to Jazz J2J festival promises an exciting fusion of music, art, and cultural reflection that extends beyond the stage.

Running from 1 to 4 May, this years festival not only boasts world-class performances but also presents an engaging programme of curated exhibitions and collaborative art projects. This unique aspect elevates the festival experience from mere sonic enjoyment to a profound visual feast, inviting attendees to explore South Africas rich cultural legacy.

Among the highlights is an impressive exhibition titled Back o the Moon , presented by Peffers Fine Art. This striking collection assembles evocative photographs from the vibrant 1950sa decade often romanticised as the fabulous decade of South African jazz, as famously noted by literary giant Lewis Nkosi. Named after the iconic Sophiatown shebeen, Back o the Moon encapsulates the era's energy, defiance, and artistic ingenuity. The exhibition will feature the works of legendary photographers such as Alf Kumalo, Bob Gosani, Peter Magubane, Ernest Cole, Jurgen Schadeberg, and Paul Weinberg, many of which were initially published in the renowned

magazine Drum .

Nonhlanhla Kumalo, daughter of celebrated photographer Alf Kumalo, reflects on her father's legacy: Photography is more than just capturing a momentit is a commitment to truth, memory, and legacy. Alf Kumalo dedicated his life to telling the untold stories of our past, using his lens as a powerful tool for education and preserving history . The exhibition promises intimate portraits and vibrant street scenes featuring some of the most influential figures in South African jazz history, including Miriam Makeba, Dolly Rathebe, Hugh Masekela, Kippie Moeketsi, Winston Mankunku Ngozi, and Abdullah Ibrahim. This is a rare opportunity for festivalgoers to engage with the visual history of a profound cultural movement.