GRAAD 12
NATIONAL
SENIOR CERTIFICATE
GRADE 12
VSLA.1
VISUAL ARTS P1
NOVEMBER 2014
MARKS: 100
TIME: 3 hours
This question paper consists of 19 pages.
This question paper must be printed in full colour.
AFTERNOON SESSION
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INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION
In this examination you will demonstrate the following skills:
x The use of the correct art terminology
x The use and implementation of visual analysis and critical thinking
x Writing and research skills within a historical and cultural context
x The placing of specific examples into a cultural, social, political and historical
context
x An understanding of distinctive creative styles
Read the following instructions before deciding which questions to answer.
1. This question paper consists of EIGHT questions.
2. Answer any FIVE questions for a total of 100 marks.
3. Number the answers correctly according to the numbering system used in this
question paper.
4. Questions appear on the left-hand pages, with visual sources on the right-
hand pages.
5. Ensure that you refer to the visual sources reproduced in colour where
required.
6. Information discussed in one answer will NOT be credited if repeated in other
answers. Cross-referencing of artworks is permissible.
7. Name the artist and title of each artwork you discuss in your answers.
Underline the title of an artwork or the name of a building.
8. Write in a clear, creative and structured manner, using full sentences and
paragraphs according to the instructions of each question. Listing of
facts/tables is NOT acceptable.
9. Use the following as a guideline to the length of your answer. Note the mark
allocation.
x 6–8 marks: a minimum of ½–¾ page
x 10–14 marks: a minimum of 1–1½ page(s)
x 20 marks: a minimum of 2 pages
10. Write neatly and legibly.
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GLOSSARY
Use the following glossary to make sure you understand how to approach a
particular question:
Analyse: A detailed and logical discussion of the formal elements of art, such
as line, form, shape, colour, tone, format and composition of an
artwork.
Compare: Point out differences and similarities in an ordered sequence within
the same argument.
Contextualise: Relating to or depending on the framework of information; relating to
the situation, time/era and location to which the information refers.
Describe: Outline the facts, details and particulars of the artwork; reporting
what any eye might see.
Discuss: Present your point of view and give reasons for your statement.
Explain: Clarify and give reasons for your statement.
Formal The basic elements used to create a work of art, such as line, shape,
elements of art: tone, texture, colour, space, composition, et cetera.
Interpret: Analyse and evaluate (give an informed opinion of) an artwork.
Contextualise it historically, culturally, socially, politically, et cetera
and substantiate your findings by referring to similar specific
examples.
State: Provide exact facts and say directly what you think – give your
opinion, as well as an explanation.
Substantiate: To support/motivate with proof or evidence.
Visual sources: The reproduced images that are provided in this question paper or
referred to in other sources.
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ANSWER ANY FIVE QUESTIONS.
QUESTION 1: THE VOICE OF EMERGING ARTISTS
The artists of the reproduced works have captured similar moments where children
interact with one another in a peaceful and friendly manner. Children all over the world
seldom think of the future and this innocence leaves them free to enjoy themselves
and make friends with anyone.
1.1 Study FIGURE 1a and FIGURE 1b and write a short essay in which you
discuss how each artist confirmed the above statement.
Your essay should include the following:
x Similarities and differences
x Use of style
x Compositional aspects/arrangements of figures
x The choice of colour and the impact of the work (10)
1.2 Write an essay in which you analyse TWO artworks by different artists who
portray everyday scenes from their lives, communities and surroundings.
Your essay should include the following:
x Names of artists and titles of artworks
x Use of media and techniques
x Formal elements the artists have used
x The compositional aspects of each artwork
x The message each artwork conveys (10)
[20]
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FIGURE 1a: Andrew Macara, Playground, Sri Lanka, oil on canvas, 1998.
FIGURE 1b: Ephraim Ngatane, Township Scene with Dog and Bicycle,
oil on board, date unknown.
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QUESTION 2: SOUTH AFRICAN ARTISTS INFLUENCED BY AFRICAN AND/OR
INDIGENOUS ART FORMS
Many South African artists make use of indigenous symbols and images to express
their African identity, while their work still depicts the themes of modern society.
2.1 Analyse and interpret FIGURE 2a. Discuss how the artist expressed the
influence of indigenous symbols and modern images in the artwork.
Discuss the following aspects:
x Use of indigenous symbols and images
x Subject matter
x Use of line, shape and colour
x Use of style
x Identify visual symbols that depict a more modern lifestyle. Motivate your
answer. (10)
2.2 Discuss ONE artwork from any TWO different artists whose works also
express their African identity, due to the influences of indigenous and/or
African art forms.
Your answer should include the following:
x Names of artists and titles of works
x Subject matter of works
x The influences of indigenous African art forms and symbols
x Use of style
x Content and meaning (10)
[20]
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FIGURE 2a: Wayne Baker, Land and Desire, strung glass beads, 2009.
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QUESTION 3: SOCIO-POLITICAL ART, INCLUDING RESISTANCE ART OF THE
1970s AND 1980s
Art has always been an instrument of change, reflecting the moods of a society,
expressing its flaws and victories, and bringing about change. Yet, to be effective, art
must be shared, not only for aesthetic fulfilment, but to record effectively the stories it
tells.
3.1 Study the images in FIGURE 3a and FIGURE 3b and write an essay in which
you tell the story of each image by referring to the following:
x Explanation of what you think is happening in each image (Use your own
words.)
x Differences in the representation of the figures
x Reference to the facial expressions and the portrayal of the body
x Which one of the two artworks has the most meaningful visual impact on
you and why? (8)
3.2 Discuss ONE other artwork from TWO different artists whose works depict a
socio-political event.
Your answer should include the following:
x Names of artists and titles of works
x Subject matter
x Use of style
x The stories that have been recorded in the works (12)
[20]
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FIGURE 3a: Paula Rego, Dog Women, pastel on paper, 1994.
FIGURE 3b: Willie Bester, Who Let the Dogs Out? (detail),
installation, metal sculpture, 2001.
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QUESTION 4: ART, CRAFT AND SPIRITUAL WORKS MAINLY FROM RURAL
SOUTH AFRICA
The main objective of the Keiskamma Project in the Eastern Cape is to foster hope and
offer support for the most vulnerable women and children whose situation has been
worsened by HIV/Aids.
4.1 Study the visual sources in FIGURE 4a and FIGURE 4b and answer the
following:
x Identify and describe the images in the artworks which may portray
healing.
x Discuss how the manner in which the medium was used could also be a
process of healing.
x In your opinion, what lessons can be learnt from the stories portrayed in
these artworks? (6)
4.2 Analyse ONE artwork each by TWO artists whose work you have studied this
year.
Describe the use of materials, techniques, interpretation of the subject
matter/theme and possible messages within the artworks.
Your essay should include the following:
x Names of artists and titles of works
x Interpretation of the subject matter/theme
x Use of materials and techniques (14)
x Possible messages within the artworks [20]
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FIGURE 4a: The Keiskamma Project: Altarpiece, the Crucifixion –
Transcending AIDS in South Africa, tapestry on wood panels, 2006.
FIGURE 4b: The Keiskamma Project: Altarpiece, the Crucifixion –
Transcending AIDS in South Africa (detail), tapestry on wood panels, 2006.
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QUESTION 5: MULTIMEDIA AND NEW MEDIA – ALTERNATIVE
CONTEMPORARY AND POPULAR ART FORMS IN SOUTH
AFRICA
Multimedia artists often use metaphoric images to communicate various ideas.
FIGURE 5a shows Nicolas Hlobo's massive sculptural work which was exhibited at the
2011 Venice Biennale entitled Iimpundulu Zonke Ziyandilandela (All the Lightning Birds
are After Me). The cultural meaning of 'Iimpundulu' refers to an evil creature that can
cause illness, bad luck or even death. It is also associated with thunder and lightning.
5.1 Discuss the artworks in FIGURE 5a and FIGURE 5b by answering the
following:
x Discuss how EACH artist used his/her media and techniques to create an
impact on the viewer.
x Suggest a possible meaning of each artwork.
x Motivate your answer by explaining whether or not each artist has been
successful in communicating the message. (8)
5.2 In the form of a short essay, discuss any TWO artworks that you have
studied, in which the artist/s has/have used multimedia in a contemporary
way.
Include the following in your answer:
x Name of artist/s and titles of works
x Content and use of materials and techniques
x Possible meanings and concepts (12)
x What metaphors have been included in the artworks? [20]
Metaphoric images: Symbolic images
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FIGURE 5a: Nicolas Hlobo, Iimpundulu Zonke Ziyandilandela (All the Lightning
Birds are After Me), rubber, ribbon and mixed media, 2011.
FIGURE 5b: Swoon, Thalassa, mixed media, site-specific installation,
20 feet tall, New Orleans Museum of Art, 2011.
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QUESTION 6: POST-1994 DEMOCRATIC IDENTITY IN SOUTH AFRICA
In 2013 the Oxford Dictionary word of the year was 'selfie' – a photograph you take of
yourself, which you then post on social networks.
6.1 A portrait is often more than just the outward appearance of a person. In art, a
portrait tells us about the individual identity of the person portrayed.
Study the images in FIGURES 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d and write a paragraph in
which you consider the following factors:
x Why do you think people are so obsessed with selfies, and how does it
relate to the 'celebrity obsession' of our time?
x How do the artworks in FIGURES 6b, 6c and 6d differ from the selfie in
FIGURE 6a?
x How do the artists who created the works in FIGURES 6b, 6c and 6d
portray the sitters' identities in the portraits they have created? Refer to
facial features, images and symbols used. (10)
6.2 Discuss any TWO artworks that you have studied which also question and
reflect on issues of identity in South Africa.
Include the following in your answer:
x Names of artist/s and titles of works
x Content and meaning
x Use of materials and techniques
x Use of style
x Issues of identity within the works (10)
[20]
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FIGURE 6a: Mylie Cyrus, Selfie, FIGURE 6b: Yi Chen, The Abnormal Icon,
Instagram, 2013. oil on canvas, 2012.
FIGURE 6c: Conrad Botes, The Temptation to FIGURE 6d: Mustafa Maluka, Why Do You
Exist IV, acrylic on canvas, 2011. Tear Me from Myself?, oil on canvas, 2009.
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QUESTION 7: GENDER ISSUES: MASCULINITY AND FEMININITY
Many artists of the 21st century explore gender issues. There is often a play of
opposing forces: male and female, the controller and the controlled. Women, as well as
men, cannot come to terms with their physical appearance, the roles they play and
their acceptance in a prejudiced society.
In the form of an essay, discuss any TWO artists' works that address the issues of
gender and its roles in society. Also refer to the works in FIGURE 7a and FIGURE 7b.
You may use the following as a guideline:
x Names of artists and titles of works
x Would you say that these images are a good reflection of femininity and
masculinity?
x All four figures hide behind something. Discuss this statement. How does this make
you feel?
x Interesting images and objects have been used in the composition. How does it
engage the viewer and how does it add to the meaning/interpretation?
x Are the artists trying to portray any specific South African gender issues?
x Reasons for using the specific media and techniques
x Differences and similarities
x Use of pattern
x Styles and techniques [20]
Prejudiced: To display an unreasonable dislike of or preference for a specific person,
group or culture, usually based on cultural beliefs, race, religion, gender,
et cetera
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FIGURE 7a: Karin Miller, Ladies-Lunch-Black-Ladies, photomontage, 2011.
FIGURE 7b: Kudzanai Chiurai, Untitled III,
photomontage, ultrachrome ink on photo fibre paper, 2011.
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QUESTION 8: ARCHITECTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA
Paragon Architects is a leading South African architectural firm. This dynamic and
innovative group of architects aspires to create buildings that are futuristic. They
embrace the future, because they want to be a part of it.
Paragon Architects state, 'We have not lost our sense of humour, and we are
genuinely optimistic. We are known for being flexible and diverse in our approach to
design.'
With reference to the above statement write an essay in which you discuss the
following:
x In which ways do the buildings in FIGURE 8a and FIGURE 8b look futuristic?
Substantiate your answer.
x Would you agree with the statement that the architects' work shows a 'sense of
humour and optimism'? Substantiate your answer.
x In your opinion, what contribution was made by the architects to the South African
urban landscape/environment?
x Discuss the influences from past styles in these buidlings. Discuss at least ONE
other contemporary architectural example that you have studied, which you have
found to be truly innovative. Refer in your answer to stylistic characteristics, the use
of building materials and construction methods, and the architects' responsibility to
the environment. [20]
Contemporary architecture: In its widest sense, it is the architecture of TODAY. It is
cutting edge and innovative. It makes use of the latest
technology and materials.
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FIGURE 8a: Paragon Architects, Norton Rose Towers, Sandton, 2011.
FIGURE 8b: Paragon Architects, Design for the Sasol Corporate Building,
Sandton, (opening in 2016).
TOTAL: 100
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