Author Question: Consider Yinka Shonibare's Cake Man and discuss the significance of the use of textiles in the work. ... (Read 234 times)

vicotolentino · **on:** Jun 23, 2018

Consider Yinka Shonibare's Cake Man and discuss the significance of the use of textiles in the work.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Identify at least three artists who have used their art to comment on issues of identity, both cultural and personal. Comment on the reasons that you feel they have succeeded or failed in their efforts.

What will be an ideal response?

BAOCHAU2803 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

The textiles that Shonibare favors have an intriguing history. Though widely used in West Africa for clothing, they are not African in origin. They were first produced around 1900 by the Dutch, who developed them in imitation of the batik cloth made in Indonesia. The British soon began producing similar textiles, and both countries marketed them to West Africa, where they became part of traditional dress. Even things that were supposed to represent authentic Africa didn't turn out to fulfill the expectation of authenticity, says Shonibare. The textiles invite us to meditate on the complex back-and-forth of these relationships, which destabilize simple ideas about cultural authenticity and national identity.

Answer to Question 2

Responses will vary depending on the selection of artwork/artists. Include a description of each artwork and how that work employs a visual dialogue to convey the artist's statement.