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Keabetse Maake-little girl II

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Keabetse Maake

When I grow up I want to be White?

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PRESENTED BY : Keabetse Maake

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R 35,000.00 ex. vat
SKU
keabetse-maake_when-i-grow-up-i-want-to-be-white
More Information
Frame None
Medium Yarn Painting
Location Johannesburg, South Africa
Height 120.00 cm
Width 120.00 cm
Artist Keabetse Maake
Year 2024

The yarn painting features a vibrant and intricate design that showcases the artist's mastery of the medium. Shades of orange, red, yellow, green, pink, and other colours are among the artwork's rich and varied colour palette. These hues are woven together in a harmonious yet striking way, capturing the viewer's attention throughout the entire piece.

The composition is balanced, featuring two central figures that anchor the piece. Through this work, the artist explores themes of childhood joy and black luxury. They question what it means to be comfortable with luxuries—a concept traditionally associated with whiteness during the artist's upbringing. This is reflected in the painting's title, "When I Grow Up I Want to Be White."

The artist emphasises the need for a broader conversation about black luxury, using text and fonts within the artwork to underscore their message. The phrase "ke kgodile," with the letter "I" missing, meaning "I have grown," is prominently featured; it speaks more about the luxury of unity within hood culture and how there is no "I" in growth; it is essentially teamwork. Symbolism plays a crucial role, with elements such as a five-panel cap and a S.W.A.N.K. soccer jersey from a luxury street brand representing black luxury. The artist draws on influences from Kasi or township culture, to shape their perspective on black comfort and luxury.

Additionally, the painting incorporates elements that evoke childhood, such as fairy wings equipped with lights, symbolising the importance of embracing childlike characteristics. These thematic and symbolic elements combine to create a rich narrative that challenges traditional notions of luxury and comfort, particularly within the context of black identity.

 

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