The floating city : carnival, Cape Town and the queering of space
Date
2009-03
Authors
Van der Wal, Ernst
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
In this thesis I examine the phenomenon of carnival for its corporeal and spatial expressions
of fluid identity formations. The visual constitution of multiple gay/queer identities during
carnival is commonly regarded as transgressive of the normative order that is ideologically
and physically imbedded in the structure of city. I suggest, however, that the various local
performances of homosexuality that are mobilised during the Cape Town Pride Parade can
be interpreted as simultaneous reinforcements and contestations of sexual stereotypes. By
tracing discursive and spatial shifts that have occurred within the South African sexual
landscape, I demonstrate how this carnival both transgresses and bolsters heteronormativity.
In addition, I explore how race and gender play decisive roles in the constitution of a
homonormative gay identity, and investigate how these male, white homonormative
assumptions are challenged by a minority of black and lesbian participants. In the process
of deconstruction, I also reveal how the interaction between spectator and carnival
participant blurs binary constructs of stasis/mobility, subject/object, private/public, and
'normal'/'abnormal'.
Description
Thesis (MA (VA)(Visual Arts))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Art, Theses -- Art, Dissertations -- Visual arts, Theses -- Visual arts