Rashid Lombard: Farewell to a cultural icon and visionary photographer
Award -winning photographer Rashid Lombard, died at the age of 74.
Image: Supplied
Family, friends, and admirers gathered in Crawford on Thursday, June 5, to bid farewell to award-winning photographer Rashid Lombard, who died at the age of 74.
The funeral, conducted in accordance with Muslim rites, served as a poignant reminder of Lombard's impact on the arts and culture of South Africa, and his indelible mark on the world of photography.
Born in North End, Gqeberha, Lombard moved to Cape Town in 1962, where he carved out an illustrious career that spanned several decades. Initially a qualified architectural draughtsman, Lombard transitioned into industrial photography before establishing himself as a revered news and documentary photographer as well as a photographic artist.
In 1997, he founded espAfrika, laying the foundation for what would become one of Africa's most beloved cultural events.
Three years later, he launched the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), which he directed until his retirement in 2014. His vision and dedication transformed the festival into a prominent cultural hub, which not only celebrated music but also contributed to economic growth in the region.
Family and friends attended the funeral of award-winning photographer Rashid Lombard who died at the age of 74.
Image: Nabeelah Mohedeen
The extraordinary breadth of Lombard's work is highlighted by his extensive archive of over
500 000 film negatives, video, and audio recordings. This significant collection has been entrusted to the University of the Western Cape, ensuring that his legacy endures through future generations.
Former Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille remarked on his influence, stating that Lombard's powerful imagery chronicled the rise of South Africa's democratic movement while vividly celebrating the rich tapestry of South African jazz.
"The CTIJF delivered a major economic boost to the City and the Western Cape, driving tourism revenue and supporting a broad spectrum of industries," de Lille noted. "Most importantly, it created jobs and inspired hope, particularly among our youth," she said.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed profound sadness over the loss of such a cultural icon.
"We have lost a cultural icon who not only documented our history of struggle but made history in his own right," he said, adding that Lombard’s fearless depiction of apartheid’s endemic inhumanity and violence, coupled with his compassionate focus on the lives of oppressed communities, provides a powerful record of our struggle for basic human rights and dignity.
Mr Ramaphosa said: "He leaves behind a legacy defined by liberation and joy."
Rashid Lombard's funeral not only marked the end of an era but also celebrated the life of an extraordinary individual whose contribution to art and culture will forever resonate in the hearts of those who cherish the beauty and complexity of South African history.