South African civil society organizations are urging President Cyril Ramaphosa and his cabinet to intervene after Minister Zizi Kodwa cancelled the South African pavilion at the Venice Biennale due to artwork deemed supportive of Palestine.
Biennale Artwork Cancellation Sparks Controversy
The cancellation centers on artist Gabrielle Goliath’s artwork, which was perceived as taking a pro-Gaza stance. Minister Kodwa defended his decision, citing concerns about the artwork potentially being interpreted as South Africa taking a position on a foreign policy matter, and referencing alleged pressure from a “foreign power.”
However, this “foreign power” defense has been widely criticized as unsubstantiated. Organizations argue Kodwa’s actions represent an overreach of ministerial power and a violation of constitutional principles protecting artistic freedom.
Several NGOs, including the South African Jewish Report, have formally requested presidential and cabinet intervention. They contend that Kodwa’s decision sets a dangerous precedent for censorship and undermines the country’s commitment to freedom of expression.
The artist, Gabrielle Goliath, has appealed directly to President Ramaphosa following the pavilion’s closure. The South African pavilion was effectively shut down before the official opening of the Biennale.
Civil society groups emphasize that Kodwa’s actions were taken without due process or consultation, and that the artwork in question does not explicitly endorse any political position, but rather explores themes of violence and mourning.
The situation has ignited a debate about the intersection of art, geopolitics, and government censorship in South Africa. The organizations involved are calling for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the cancellation and assurances that such actions will not be repeated.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
