Artist’s Statement
Assimilation is traditionally defined as the process by which a person
or persons acquire the social and psychological characteristics of a group.
However within the social dynamics of the post-information age, the factors
that define a group, a culture, even a national identity has much wider reach
and influence. We live in a hyper-connected society where we are willingly
submitting to the values and opinions of the group, where our sense of personal
identity and cultural values are subject to public scrutiny and constant
evaluation. Our traditional sense of community has been replaced by a
“hive-mind” mentality that doesn’t tolerate or embrace alternative opinions,
opposition and sub-cultures.
Through
the use of portraiture the works explore how our own sense of personal and
cultural identity is being subjected to the expectations, values and norms
presented by the group / collective / “hive-mind”. Through the creation of new
archetypes / stereotypes it will explore the undermining of individuality,
otherness, sub-cultures and traditional culture through group pressure towards
a homogeneous culture and world view.The show contains an augmented reality aspect that can be viewed on the exhibition website: www.assimilation.co.za
Corné will have a walkabout of his show on Wednesday, 21 Sept at 11a.m.
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