Many artists use visual language and materials to communicate ideas and concepts in their artworks through the use of post-modern art. Post-modern art rejects traditional values of modernism, instead, experiments with mixing styles, ideas, and references with new media and art forms including intermedia, installation art, conceptual art, multimedia, performance art, and identity politics—postmodernism art advocates for individual interpretation of the artwork often from the perspective of the viewer's own experiences. This essay will cover how ethical issues in society, such as war, violence, social and societal norms, and socio-cultural issues, are represented through the works of two key artists. The artists in discussion are Keith Harring …show more content…
Zahulka is one of Australia's most recognised photo media artists who communicates issues such as traditions, gender roles, and socio-cultural in her artworks. In Zahulka’s artwork, ‘The Bathers (1989)’, a recontextualised and more realistic depiction of modern Australian beachgoers is displayed. The artwork is an appropriation of Charles Meere’s artwork “Australian Beach Pattern (1940)”. Zahulka challenges mainstream audiences with the way her artwork has been formed, using a backdrop and staged people to convey her message to non-stereotypical Australians. Zahulka’s recontextualized artwork features a painted backdrop of Bondi Beach, with a diverse cast of people placed in specific poses appearing happy and content. Zahulka’s artwork blatantly confronts us with realistic body types, such as a man being skinny and white, rather than in Meer’s work, strong, buff, tan and caucasian, to evoke a reaction and realisation out of the audience. This work connects with a diverse and broad range of viewers by having a multicultural cast, challenging people's perspectives about what it means to be Australian. Ironically, through her use of a fake setup, she presents the truth, whereas Meere's work presents a realistic depiction but far from reality. Through irony and humour, Zahlaka satirises our society by exposing and criticising the ‘stupidity’ or ‘foolishness’ of our traditions and false stereotypes. Zahulka is after personal interpretation and finding of identity for each member of the audience that views her work. Zahulka says she wants people to be “ not primarily interested in the individual but more in what they represent”. Through this work, Zahulka was able to communicate strong ideas of Australian beach culture, stereotypes and its evolution through her use of recontextualisation, visual language, and a wide array of