Abstract
This chapter explores the complex relationship between Christianity, ancestral veneration, consciousness, spirituality, and the role of contemporary visual artists. It concludes that a diasporic mindset is emerging from the coexistence of Christianity and ancestral practices, raising questions about the role of art and artists in this context. The chapter argues that these spiritual concepts deeply influence modern consciousness, and visual artists naturally engage with them in their work. Dowling's perspective highlights how art expresses diverse identities and opens conversations about community, acceptance, and individuality. Artists play a key role in raising awareness of spiritual identity, whether rooted in Christian beliefs or ancestral reverence. They also challenge existing ideas, seeking contradictions and connections for spiritual enlightenment. This relationship provides a framework to analyze the works of artists like Viola and Hlobo, with a focus on Xhosa ancestral traditions.
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