Amamfengu, 2020

Photography, premium satin giclee dibond mounted, Limited edition of 10
146 x 97 x 0.1 cm
57 1/2 x 38 3/16 x 1/16 inches
150 x 100 x 5 cm (incl frame)
59 1/16 x 39 3/8 x 1 15/16 inches (incl frame)
ROCK, CAUSE, ANALYSIS - The 'Rock Cause Analysis' series is deeply rooted in the concept of 'root cause analysis', which aims to identify the underlying reasons why certain things happen repeatedly. By replacing the word 'root' with 'rock', Gum draws attention to the solid and foundational nature of women in society, emphasising their significance as the bedrock of sociocultural systems. The use of rock-like textures in the sculptures further reinforces this symbolism. Gum's work serves as a platform to address fundamental pre-colonial and gender injustices while staying true to her self-portrait trademark style. Through her artistic talent and social activism, Gum brings African heritage, culture, and belief systems to the forefront of 21st-century discourse. In the 'Rock Cause Analysis' series, Gum creates unprecedented sculptures representing Xhosa tribes and the roles played by women within these tribes. Using her face and body as moulds, Gum meticulously designs and creates the sculptures, capturing the unique essence and power of each tribeswoman. The sculptures are dressed in traditional attire, adorned with beadwork that reflects their class, stature, and cultural responsibilities. Gum draws inspiration from neoclassical sculpture to juxtapose different artistic worlds and highlight the diversity of African traditions. The limbless sculptures in the series symbolise the resilience and persistence of women in their quest for recognition and equal representation. The dislodged arms featured in the photographic iterations represent the misuse and undervaluing of women's contributions. While women play crucial roles in building society and nurturing communities, their achievements are often overlooked and under appreciated. ‘Gum's 'Rock Cause Analysis' seeks to unearth the inherent strength and stoicism of Xhosa tribeswomen, who have historically been unsung heroines and matriarchs. The falling arms in the sculptures symbolize the extent to which the human arm, a symbol of productivity and capability, can be misused. Despite their productive contributions to society, women are often not adequately celebrated. In this body of work, Gum goes beyond glorifying women's roles and delves into their authentic selves, free from the layers and burdens of politics, class, and patriarchy. The chosen Xhosa tribeswomen embody the distinctive women of Gum's heritage and indigenous culture. Each sculpture represents a specific tribal role or archetype, balancing and carrying objects that symbolise their responsibilities within the tribe. Overall, the ‘Rock Cause Analysis' series is a powerful exploration of the significance and sustained recognition of women in society. Gum's artistic vision challenges societal norms and seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable representation of women's contributions. Through her thought-provoking sculptures and photographs, Gum invites viewers to reflect on the complex layers of gender inequality and advocate for change. Courtesy Christopher Moller Gallery.