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Discuss how Ai Weiwei addresses the international migration crisis and the current global political landscape through the use of new media by referring to the following: - Interpretation and choice of the site/location - Choice of structures - Scale of the artworks - Do you think these installations are successful in conveying his message? Give reasons for your answer. - NSC Visual Arts - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 5
Discuss how Ai Weiwei addresses the international migration crisis and the current global political landscape through the use of new media by referring to the follow... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss how Ai Weiwei addresses the international migration crisis and the current global political landscape through the use of new media by referring to the following: - Interpretation and choice of the site/location - Choice of structures - Scale of the artworks - Do you think these installations are successful in conveying his message? Give reasons for your answer. - NSC Visual Arts - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Interpretation and choice of the site/location
Answer
Ai Weiwei's installation is a city-wide public exhibition consisting of numerous large and small-scale installations across New York. The chosen sites are particularly significant; they reflect the impact of political issues related to borders, especially in light of Trump's policies on immigration. Figures 5a and 5b are strategically placed to resonate with the local community, as the artist lived in New York for over a decade. By placing these works in urban locations like Central Park and Washington Square Park, Ai Weiwei aims to evoke both a sense of belonging and the barriers faced by migrants.
Step 2
Choice of structures
Answer
The installations vary in structure – from the ‘Gilded cage’ made of gold-plated materials at Central Park to the massive steel cage at Washington Square Park. These structures symbolize confinement but also draw attention to the oppression faced by displaced individuals. The contrasting materials and scales serve to attract visitors' attention, compelling them to confront the realities of migration and oppression.
Step 3
Scale of the artworks
Answer
The scale of the artworks is significant. Figure 5a, with its luxurious golden design, stands in stark contrast to the imposing steel structure of Figure 5b, which is taller than the average person. This height can evoke feelings of intimidation and insignificance in viewers, prompting them to consider their positions in relation to those who are marginalized. The size thus amplifies the message about the disparity in treatment and experiences of individuals based on their backgrounds.
Step 4
Do you think these installations are successful in conveying the artist's message? Give reasons for your answer.
Answer
Yes, these installations are successful in conveying Ai Weiwei's message. The visual impact of such large and striking structures forces viewers to engage with the themes of migration and societal barriers. The emotional resonance created by the materials, alongside the strategic placement of the installations, effectively communicates the urgency of the migration crisis. By inviting public discourse, Ai Weiwei's art helps humanize the statistics that often overshadow individual stories, fostering empathy and understanding.