For the inaugural episode of Studio Nxumalo Podcast, host Musa Nxumalo interviews Berlin-based artist, curator, and photographer Manuel Osterman (Super Blast). They discuss Manuel’s journey from discovering graffiti in 1989 to his involvement in punk, hip hop, and skateboarding subcultures. Manuel shares insights into his creative upbringing, the importance of community, and balancing multiple artistic roles. The conversation explores the realities of sustaining an art practice, the value of DIY culture, and the significance of collaboration and cultural exchange in shaping his multifaceted career.
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Contacts
WhatsApp : +27 81 570 6323
Email : wanderingnxumalo@gmail.com
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Credits
Produced by Musa N. Nxumalo and Dee Siko
Theme Music : Mathroom (Frederick Clarke)
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Follow Manuel Osterholt on Instagram : @superblast
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Timestamps
(00:00:00) Musa introduces the podcast, himself, and guest Manuel Osterholt.
(00:01:39) Manuel introduces himself, his alias, and his multidisciplinary art practice in Berlin.
(00:02:02) Manuel describes his journey into the arts, influenced by punk, hip-hop, and skateboarding.
(00:02:10) Manuel recounts forming a punk band and discovering graffiti and Hip-Hop in Heidelberg.
(00:04:11) Manuel discusses the importance of subcultures and alternative communities.
(00:05:21) Manuel explains his alternative, creative family background
(00:06:41) Manuel shares how graffiti’s DIY spirit and visual appeal shaped his artistic identity.
(00:08:14) Manuel talks about his graffiti crew uniting members from East and West Germany.
(00:09:07) Manuel describes leaving small-town Heidelberg for Berlin.
(00:10:03) Manuel contrasts Heidelberg’s small-town feel with Berlin’s urban diversity.
(00:12:26) Manuel reflects on his Greek heritage and the importance of balancing city life with nature.
(00:13:30) Manuel notes how digital tools and post-lockdown shifts enable creative work.
(00:14:03) Manuel praises South African documentary photography as inspirations.
(00:15:00) Manuel discusses the complexities of photographing in South Africa.
(00:19:18) Manuel expresses his passion for visual arts and the DIY ethos of creating exhibitions.
(00:21:03) Manuel explains how travel influences his photography.
(00:23:17) Manuel describes his role as a gallery director, balancing artistic and commercial aspects.
(00:25:21) Manuel discusses blending art, graphic design, and commercial projects.
(00:26:31) The conversation ends with gratitude appreciating local culture, and hopes for future visits.
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References
Books
"Ways of Curating" by Hans Ulrich Obrist: 00:09:44
Photographers
Santo Mofokeng: 00:14:26
Boogie: 00:21:15
Photography Groups
The Bang Bang Club: 00:15:29
Fields/Concepts
Graphic Design: 00:25:21
Events and Locations
Market Theater: 00:26:31
