TED: Living sculptures that stand for history's truths | Sethembile Msezane

The video explores themes of identity, representation, and societal impact through the lens of a young black girl's experience. It discusses the influence of public spaces and statues on self-image and societal treatment, using performance art as a tool for social commentary. The narrative includes the removal of the Cecil John Rhodes statue and the cultural significance of the Chapungu bird, highlighting issues of gender, power, and historical narratives in South Africa.

What existential question does the young girl ask herself in front of the mirror?

• What is my purpose?

• Do I exist?

• Who am I?

• Why am I here?

How does the presence of certain monuments in Cape Town affect societal perceptions?

• They promote gender equality.

• They echo social, gender, and racial divides.

• They support modern architecture.

• They encourage cultural diversity.

What form of art does the speaker use to address social issues?

• Painting

• Sculpture

• Performance art

• Photography

What does the artist's performance on Women's Day aim to address?

• The celebration of colonial history

• The absence of black female representation

• The promotion of modern art

• The importance of fashion

What significant event took place on April 9, 2015, in South Africa?

• The removal of the Cecil John Rhodes statue

• The start of a new government

• The Women's March

• The end of apartheid

What is the significance of the soapstone bird, Chapungu, in the artist's performance?

• It represents colonial power.

• It symbolizes African pride and heritage.

• It is a modern art piece.

• It is a fictional character.

What does the artist use to symbolize African pride in her performance?

• A musical instrument

• A traditional dance

• A painting

• A soapstone bird

What mythological belief is explored in the film 'Falling'?

• The birds are guardians of the forest.

• The birds will grant eternal life.

• The return of the final bird will bring peace.

• The birds will bring prosperity.

What does the artist hope to achieve through her work?

• To create controversy

• To celebrate women's histories and ensure visibility

• To sell her art

• To become famous

What does the artist realize about her spiritual beliefs and dreams?

• They are irrelevant to her work.

• They texture her material reality.

• They are unrelated to her identity.

• They are purely fictional.