Over the last two centuries, artists in South Africa have responded to European colonialism in different ways.
19th - 20th century
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Beaded collar (ingqosha), Xhosa artist, South Africa
A relatively humble example of Xhosa beadwork became a potent symbol of tradition as well as a statement of defiance in South Africa.
Married Woman’s Apron (itjogolo or ijogolo), Ndebele peoples
These decorated aprons were gifts from the groom’s family to his wife, and signified her new role in society.
Thethana, South Sotho artist
Arts of adornment, like the thethana, have the amazing ability to function as signifiers of social belonging and individual status.
uKhahlamba Drakensberg rock paintings (San)
This spectacular natural site contains many caves and rock-shelters with the largest and most concentrated group of paintings in Africa south of the Sahara.
William Kentridge, drawing from Tide Table (Soho in Deck Chair)
Why watch the tides when you can read about it in the newspaper? Kentridge comments on social class in this drawing.
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