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34
basis’. 27 Public response that followed on 22 July varied from congratulating
the editor on her courage for this portrayal, to accusing The Times of ruining
readers’ days. 28 The fact remains that this is a harsh reality in South Africa
that has not been as widely broadcast as other crimes.
Some people’s days may have been ruined by this photograph, but that
child’s life was ruined. It’s time we face the vivid realities that lurk our
streets in our beautiful country. This is comparable to the Victor etchings —
once we face the vivid realities of our world, we are forced by our conscience
to act positively to bring about change. It would be unethical to complain
about the images being ‘offensive’ without dealing with the merits of the
artwork. It is possible that the images offend so many people due to the
apathy towards taking positive action in our country.
7 Conclusion
It has been shown why individuals may have complete disregard for the true
intention of the Victor etchings, due to preconceived ideas and connotations.
The key issue is how these mental images can be changed in order for an
activist-approach to be fostered. A combination of tolerance and willingness
to analyse and appreciate art for its true meaning is required. Essentially,
this requires the viewers to be open-minded and willing to compromise their
existing conceptions of reality.
An interesting parallel can be drawn between the debate regarding the
etchings, and the debate regarding the establishment of the Centre for
Human Rights in 1986. No explanation is needed regarding the milieu of the
Centre’s establishment, and one can imagine the varying views in the faculty
regarding its creation. Today, it is absurd to think that some protested
against the Centre because it was a ‘Communist threat to civil society’.
Possibly, in a few years’ time, we will also sit back and laugh about the
narrow mindedness of the persons involved in the removal of the etchings
from the Centre for Human Rights, due to their lack of understanding and
appreciation of true creative art.
Thus, both Modiri and I suggest that all people should learn from past
mistakes. Furthermore, that where possible, restitution should take place.
Modiri submits that a greater sample of members of staff as well as the
students themselves should have been involved in the decisions regarding
27 See (n 25 above).
28 Public response ‘Opinion and letters’ 22 July 2010 The Times 16.