Brondal is the name of a valley adjacent to where I live. It is an Afrikaans word for source or spring valley, and is in turn derived from Dutch and German. More recently it has become known as Magosha valley by Siswati speakers. Magosha is a derogatory name for prostitutes. Part of the verdant sub-tropical Lowveld, the area has been exploited by industrial farming, first for planting eucalyptus plantations, and now for macadamia and avocado orchards. Along the road running through the valley, prostitutes ply their trade, using the cover of the trees as a place to service their clients. Prostitution is illegal and hence unprotected in South Africa. Like the women, the land is exploited whilst simultaneously providing.

Brondal
Embroidery and beadwork on fabric
198 x 118 cm
Museu Inimá de Paula collection, Belo Horizonte, Brazil