Murray: Art and Politics Grade 12 Examples From 2013 Exams

This metal cut-out by Brett Murray hangs on the wall in the Durban Art Gallery , where it has caused much controversy.

FACT FILE:

The artist does the original drawing.

The digital design is read and cut by an automated laser-cutting machine.

Black is metal, white is the wall – a void.

The text reads:

YOU WOULDN’T UNDERSTAND IT’S A BLACK THING

YOU WOULDN’T UNDERSTAND IT’S A WHITE THING

2.1.1
What is your opinion about the role of digital / electronic media in today’s media world?                                               Could be pro or con – give reasons    þ þ   (2)

2.1.2

What elements and principles of art does the artist use? Explain how he uses them.

Eg Line (outlines become solid shapes) eg Positive & negative shapes (solids & voids – discuss) þ þ
  (2)

           

2.1.3

What message do you think the artist is trying to convey?

Does he manage to do this effectively?  Why?  (3)

Clash between B & W cultures. Colonial explorer versus the ‘primitive’ cannibal.
 Uses a humorous medium – cartoons.
Accept any reasoned answer.