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The artists, Dion Cupido and Rory Emmet, both reflect on their identity of having been classified as 'Coloured' and what this means to them - NSC Visual Arts - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 6
The artists, Dion Cupido and Rory Emmet, both reflect on their identity of having been classified as 'Coloured' and what this means to them. 6.1 Write a short essay... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The artists, Dion Cupido and Rory Emmet, both reflect on their identity of having been classified as 'Coloured' and what this means to them - NSC Visual Arts - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Use of figures/body language
Answer
In Figure 6a, the dominant figure is portrayed with a range of intense emotions reflected through facial expression and body language, emphasizing a deep narrative of struggle and self-reflection. The contrast of the bold words across the figure's body adds a layer of commentary on identity and societal expectations. In Figure 6b, the figures engaged in familial activities convey a sense of warmth and normalcy, yet the obscured identities suggest deeper issues regarding visibility and recognition within the community. The body language interpreted from both artworks allows for a more nuanced understanding of what it means to embody a 'Coloured' identity.
Step 2
Background
Answer
The background in Figure 6a features a chaotic mix of party streams and moving figures, which captures a festive atmosphere that juxtaposes the individual's somber expression, emphasizing the conflict between public celebration and personal grief. In Figure 6b, the vintage background suggests a historical context that links the family depicted to their roots, fostering a sense of belonging while potentially becoming a commentary on the outdated perceptions of identity.
Step 3
Colour
Answer
Figure 6a uses a mix of muted and vibrant colours, particularly emphasizing the contrast in the subject's skin tone against the graffiti elements. This highlights the complexity of 'Coloured' identity in a post-apartheid context. In Figure 6b, the muted tones and multi-coloured compact dots create a vivid yet sensitive portrayal of skin, which reflects the diversity within the community while calling attention to the depth of individual experience within broader societal narratives.
Step 4
Do you think these works reflect identity successfully? Refer to possible meanings/messages.
Answer
Both artworks successfully reflect the complexities of 'Coloured' identity. Figure 6a provokes thought regarding social perception and internal struggle, while Figure 6b provides a more intimate view of family and belonging. The combination of body language, background, and colour choices across both works illustrates the multifaceted nature of identity, encouraging viewers to engage with the topics of recognition, historical context, and personal narrative. The artworks collectively prompt a dialogue about the implications of classification and identity within contemporary South Africa.
Step 5
Discuss TWO artworks by South African artists (ONE artwork per artist) whose artworks reflect issues regarding identity.
Answer
One significant artwork is Dion Cupido's 'Party Politics', which critiques the notion of identity through vibrant colours and emotive figures. The work challenges the viewer to consider the intersection of personal and political identities, particularly in the context of South Africa's post-apartheid landscape. The second artwork is Rory Emmet's 'Couple', which captures an intimate moment of familial life, addressing themes of belonging and the challenges faced in a modern society where identity classification still holds weight. Together, these pieces invite a deeper understanding of how identity issues are navigated in contemporary South Africa.