Southern Africa 2010: Works from the National Gallery of South Africa

Here are some of my favorite works from our tour of the National Gallery in Cape Town on Wednesday:

When Father Comes Back (1997)

The Sacrifice of Isaac (1997)

For Thirty Years Next to His Heart (1990)
This is a series of pass books (many more than shown here) that black Africans were required to have on them at all times, to show whenever a demand was made to do so. Failure to have proper documentation for approval to be where a person was could be grounds for jail or other punishment. This requirement was in effect for 30 years, until the end of Apartheid.

Moses and the Burning Bush (1989)

Wooden Parliamentary Mace, Actually Used in Parliament from 1961 to 1963

From the Interaction Series; at Cap (1982)
This work was interesting because the basic drawing of white Africans at leasure was put up, and individuals added their own thoughts to the work. This work was during Apartheid.

Homage to Madame C.J. Walker (I didn't get the date)
This work was interesting because I recognized the image as Madame Walker -- an Indianapolis native and the first African-American millionaire -- from manufacture and sale of hair products for black women. Small world, to find her here in South Africa! The "other end" of this work is the photo below.