Alongside the Marxist-Leninist ideology, the Red Army, the Cold War, Stalin, Sputnik and Chechen gangsters, one of the most enduring legacies of Soviet Russia is its poster art.
Characterised by their vivid colours, graphic representations, simple didactic slogans, use of poetry and merciless satire, these posters were one of Soviet Russia’s most powerful weapons. Since the fall of the empire, they have become much sought-after collector’s items. The South African Library is fortunate to house a full collection of posters produced during World War II. This collection forms the backbone of Windows on War: Russian Posters from World War II, a new exhibition that explores propaganda and politics, as well as South Africa’s complex relationship with the Soviet Union since the war years.
Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Avenue, Company’s Garden, until April 1 2012. Tel: 021 467 4660. Website: www.iziko.org.za.
? By presenting the work of final- year fine-art students, the Michaelis Graduate Exhibition offers an indication of the state of things to come. This year’s aspirants continue the trend away from conceptualism towards more concrete mediums such as painting and photography. Similarly, the flippant irony that so long defined the school has given way to a keen social conscience and an almost aching sincerity. Segregation, urbanisation, climate change and the frightening commercialisation of our present are the dominant themes. But rather than attempt to transcend these challenges with their art, most graduates simply embody them. Abstract, brooding, depopulated and often hostile landscapes fill the halls. People, when they are represented, appear either as ghosted figures or as hyper-real archetypes. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the work of Michaelis Prize-winner Ashley Walters, whose social documentary photography of urban spaces examines the loss of community in late 20th- century life.
Michaelis School of Fine Art, 37 Orange Street, Gardens, until December 17. Open from 11am until 4pm. Website: www.michaelis.uct.ac.za.