The Drawers -  Ashley Johnson - Primal   Commentary by Ashley Johnson

 exhibitions in the drawers in the gallery commentaries artists catalogs contact

HYENA

Hyena was inspired by the phenomenon of infant rape, an unfortunate reality in South African society.

About 30% of the population has AIDS, is largely poverty-stricken and illiterate. Traditional beliefs persist and some sangomas or witch-doctors promoted the idea that having sex with a new born would cure the disease. This led to a spate of baby rapes which still continues as it is impossible for the authorities to control. The government desires to be seen as a progressive force in Africa so it was very embarrassing for them and they went into denial. I felt it was important to expose this part of the human psyche, which apparently also reared its head during the Black Death period of European history.

However, the infant's head is that of an old man, probably my father, who used to delight in visiting my studio when he was still alive. Her feet are hyena's paws. This indicates perpetuity.

Copyright © 2008,  Ashley Johnson