Robby Ogilvie's Award-Winning Photograph: A Reflection on South Africa's Divisions

Edinburgh native Robby Ogilvie captured a poignant image during his visit to South Africa, which ultimately won the Object category in the Sony World Photography Awards 2026. The photograph was taken in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood of Cape Town, an area renowned for its vibrant, brightly colored houses and rich cultural history. Ogilvie spent the first week of his trip exploring Kruger National Park, where he photographed the local culture, landscapes, and wildlife before moving to Cape Town.

The Guardian

In Bo-Kaap, Ogilvie was struck by the community atmosphere, noting that many houses functioned as open studios for local artists to exhibit and sell their work. The photograph features a Ford Cortina, affectionately known as "Cortie," which is a familiar sight in the area. Ogilvie described his immediate vision for the composition, highlighting how the colors and the deep blue sky would enhance the image.

The Guardian

Ogilvie's photograph serves as a commentary on the complexities of space in South Africa, a country marked by both visible and invisible divisions. He remarked on the contrasting experiences he encountered, particularly when comparing the Bo-Kaap neighborhood with the modern and upscale V&A Waterfront area in Cape Town. This contrast underscores the broader societal divisions that persist within the city.

The Guardian

Ogilvie expressed that the title of his photograph reflects the challenges of navigating a country shaped by both historical and contemporary divides. He emphasized the importance of recognizing how space can simultaneously connect and separate communities within South Africa.

The Guardian

While Ogilvie's work has been celebrated for its artistic merit, some critics argue that such representations can oversimplify the complexities of South African society. They caution against romanticizing the cultural vibrancy of neighborhoods like Bo-Kaap without acknowledging the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by its residents.

The Guardian

• “As soon as I saw it, I knew the image. I could see how it would sit within the frame and how the colours, the road and the deep uninterrupted blue of the sky, would hold the composition,” — Robby Ogilvie, Photographer

The Guardian

• “In a country shaped by visible and invisible lines, it is difficult to ignore how space can both connect and separate.” — Robby Ogilvie, Photographer

The Guardian

Ogilvie's recognition at the Sony World Photography Awards may lead to further opportunities for him to explore and document the intricate narratives within South Africa, potentially influencing public discourse around the country's cultural and social dynamics.

The Guardian