South African Journal of Art History
Scope & Guideline
Advancing Critical Discourse in South African Art History
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Interdisciplinary Art Historical Research:
The journal emphasizes research that crosses disciplinary boundaries, integrating perspectives from history, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies to enrich the understanding of art. - Focus on South African Contexts:
A consistent focus is placed on the South African art scene, exploring local artists, movements, and historical events that shape the country's artistic landscape. - Exploration of Cultural Identity:
The journal examines how art reflects and constructs cultural identities, particularly in post-colonial contexts, addressing themes of race, gender, and heritage. - Theoretical and Methodological Innovations:
It encourages innovative theoretical frameworks and methodologies, promoting critical discourse around contemporary art practices and historical interpretations. - Engagement with Contemporary Issues:
Articles often address contemporary social and political issues, examining how art responds to and influences societal changes.
Trending and Emerging
- Myth and Metaphor in Art:
Recent articles delve into the use of myth and metaphor, particularly in relation to African cultural contexts, suggesting an emerging interest in symbolic interpretations of art. - Contemporary Sociopolitical Contexts:
There is an increasing focus on how contemporary art engages with sociopolitical issues, such as colonial histories and identity politics, indicating a trend towards art as a medium for social commentary. - Interactivity and Participation in Art Practices:
Themes surrounding participatory art practices, such as community engagement and collaborative projects, are gaining traction, reflecting a broader interest in the role of audiences in the creation and interpretation of art. - Environmental and Ecological Themes:
Emerging discussions on art's relationship to environmental issues and ecological awareness are appearing, highlighting an awareness of global challenges in the context of artistic expression. - Global Perspectives on Local Art Practices:
The journal is increasingly publishing works that explore South African art within global frameworks, indicating a trend towards comparative studies that situate local practices within international dialogues.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Historical Narratives:
There seems to be a waning interest in traditional art historical narratives that focus solely on canonical works and artists from Western art history, as the journal increasingly prioritizes contemporary and localized perspectives. - Exclusive Focus on Architectural History:
While architectural discussions remain relevant, there is a noticeable decline in articles dedicated solely to historical architectural studies without connecting them to broader cultural or societal themes. - Limited Exploration of Non-Visual Arts:
There is a reduced emphasis on non-visual arts such as performance, music, and digital media, indicating a shift towards more visual-centric studies in the journal's recent publications.
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