The Blaktism, a new video work and a
high-energy performance and ritual that sees a young female
“Fair-Skinned Aborigine” undertake a sacred ceremony in which she
receives the rite of authenticity validated by cultural authorities ever
present in the Australian cultural landscape.
The sacred ceremony itself results in a satirical cultural assimilation dance party
whereby all Australians are liberated, celebrated equally and
transgressively renewed through physical and gestural adjustments.
The Blaktism seeks to challenge audience members with
subterranean racism within popular culture. It shows the absurd nature
of racial classification and disdain for cultural self-determination in
21st century Australia. Inspired by the artist's recent experience in
obtaining her ‘Certificate of Aboriginality’; this pop video ultimately
interrogates notions of identity, power and Australian social history.
from Siân Darling on Vimeo.
You can hear more about The Blaktism here AWAYE! with Daniel Browning from Radio National
