As we saw in the text and the lecture, one of the key qualities of African art (if there is such a broad category) is cultural fluency, or adaptability. One of the ways this manifests, especially in contemporary works, is ‘hybridity’. Hybridity is when two or more cultural sources are used to create a third that is itself a new form/culture. While its close cousin, appropriation, is very problematic, Hybridity can often be the source of new artistic inspiration or even cultural innovations, when it is done with respect for the cultures involved, and/or by those who participate in both cultures. Take Shonibare, for instance. He was born in Africa, and studied in England, effectively making his identity a bit of both. His work uses this hybrid identity to make commentary on both cultures in a way that is unique.
Have you ever encountered a work of cultural or artistic hybridity? In pop culture, fashion, the arts, etc.? Describe the object/experience, and provide an image if possible. Explain what cultures provided the source material for the work, and how it has used those sources to create a new identity.
