‘F**k White People’: zero f**ks given
The ANC and the FF Plus seem to be cut from the same intolerant cloth when it comes to art and artistic expression, writes Gareth van Onselen
In ANC-like fashion, the Freedom Front Plus issued a statement last week suggesting that an exhibit at the South African National Gallery in Cape Town be removed. "The FF Plus is of the opinion that the relevant exhibition does not belong in the country’s National Art Gallery. It is offensive and causes friction and should be removed immediately," said FF Plus leader Dr Pieter Groenewald. The piece in question comprises a poster on the wall that reads "Fuck White People"; a chair, wrapped in the same "Fuck White People" material; a pair of golden sneakers; and, on occasion, the artist, Dean Hutton, who sits in the chair, dressed in a "Fuck White People" suit (well, Hutton describes it as a "suit", but it looks more like prison attire). It is all done in stark black and white print and, frankly, should come with an epilepsy warning. Tucked away in the corner of the entrance hall, the exhibit is part of a broader collection, comprising various artists and titled The Art of Disruption....
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