Tibi Tendlu, The Dirt That Binds
2015-2017 Eswatini, Southern Africa
Fulbright, African Regional Research Program
In the patriarchal Kingdom of Eswatini men vastly dominate most spheres of life, causing
gender-based violence to be granted a dauntingly ‘normal’ place within society.
Tibi Tendlu, The Dirt That Binds was a two year film and photography project
exploring this normality. Rooted in participation and dialogue, art was used as a vehicle to
witness and challange the female position in society, while celebrating the strength, dignity and
grace of Eswatini women.
The resulting film is being used extensively around the country as a training tool and a platform
for dialogue surrounding violence within families; its causes, its effects and possibilities for
making change.
Fulbright, African Regional Research Program
In the patriarchal Kingdom of Eswatini men vastly dominate most spheres of life, causing
gender-based violence to be granted a dauntingly ‘normal’ place within society.
Tibi Tendlu, The Dirt That Binds was a two year film and photography project
exploring this normality. Rooted in participation and dialogue, art was used as a vehicle to
witness and challange the female position in society, while celebrating the strength, dignity and
grace of Eswatini women.
The resulting film is being used extensively around the country as a training tool and a platform
for dialogue surrounding violence within families; its causes, its effects and possibilities for
making change.
