History has an aspect of oversight in the process of progressive blindness

2004
.
Installation
,
Tier 3
History & Identity
© Andries Botha
History has an aspect of oversight in the process of progressive blindness
Positioned in the "History & Identity" section of the exhibition, this installation artwork addresses the potential blind spots in historical narratives. The artist's exploration of history's impact on identity could lead to a thought-provoking experience for viewers.

The artwork "History has an Aspect of Oversight in the Process of Progressive Blindness" by Andries Botha, created in 1988, is a complex and thought-provoking three-dimensional installation. It is constructed from various materials, including rubber, steel, wood, and wax, and features a diverse array of elements such as chairs covered with cowhide, a rotating device, a display cabinet, wax curio portrait busts, ash building blocks, and more.The installation's multifaceted composition serves to create a narrative that goes beyond traditional visual storytelling, aiming to evoke the imagination of the viewer. Botha's work explores profound themes such as flawed humanity, hidden truths, and the intricate complexity of history. Rather than portraying history as a singular, objective narrative, the artist emphasizes the subjective nature of perception and the moment of looking as the source of truth. He represents history as a collection of individual interpretations, each contributing to a broader understanding.The artwork resonates with Botha's broader artistic focus on emotional and historical narratives that shape both himself and the South African landscape. Themes such as power, helplessness, gender, violence, migration, identity, and the environment are often present in his works, reflecting on humanity's grace and trauma[[1](https://www.andriesbotha.net/artwork/2002-2005/history/)][[2](http://news.artsmart.co.za/2021/05/andries-botha-it-takes-everything.html)].

Andries Botha

South Africa
 -  
1952

Andries Botha

South Africa
.
1952
Andries Botha