Susan Woolf: South African Taxi Hand Signs

What is it about?

The article reviews Susan Woolf's exhibition of her decade-long project on the hand signs used to signal the independent drivers on their routes from the townships to downtown Johannesburg. Her comprehensive catalogue of this unique sign system has resulted in an extensive artistic output, including drawing, prints, books, sculptures and films, all of which were included in the exhibit at the South African Jewish Museum.

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Why is it important?

The taxi hand signs can be considered South Africa's eleventh language, and offers insight into a little-known aspect of South African culture. The artist, Susan Woolf, is not well-known outside of South Africa, and her outstanding work, including this ambitious project, deserves wider attention.