Decolonising Masculinity, Mzoxolo Mayongo, masculinity, postcolonial cultures, South Africa, Demystifying the Phallus of Man, process of decolonisation, economic impacts of colonialism, hierarchical ideas, gay masculinity, colonial power structures
In postcolonial cultures like South Africa, the idea of masculinity is closely tied to gender, race, and class. The colonial power structures that favoured control, dominance, and the dehumanisation of Black men, often portraying them as overly sexual and primitive, significantly influenced traditional views of masculinity. Black men's selfperceptions and their ability to shape their own identities are still affected by these harmful stereotypes. Mzoxolo Mayongo's artwork "Ubukho be Ndoda", Demystifying the Phallus of Man, challenges these colonial ideas of masculinity and presents an alternative perspective that values fluidity, emotional expression, and vulnerability. Mayongo defies rigid gender stereotypes by combining traditionally feminine and masculine traits in his art, promoting a more inclusive understanding of manhood. By addressing the intersections of race, class, and gender, Mayongo's art breaks down dominant masculinity. This essay explores how this art contributes to the broader goal of decolonising masculinity.
[...] In postcolonial settings, men from economically marginalised backgrounds may feel pressured to display their masculinity through acts of aggression or dominance since they often lack authority. The interaction of gender introduces significant complexity to the shaping of masculinity. Traditional male standards impose strict demands, requiring men to display aggressive, dominant, and unemotional traits. These expectations not only limit men's ability to express their feelings but also perpetuate harmful dynamics that reinforce gender inequality. Men feel pressured to conceal their vulnerability, associating it with weakness (Gennrich, 2013:22). This type of masculinity, which links manliness with authority and dominance, often oppresses women. [...]
[...] Decolonizing Masculinity: Mzoxolo Mayongo Rethinking Masculinity TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF FIGURES ii Introduction 1 Section Decolonial Masculinity 2 Section Analysing Mzoxolo Mayongo's Work 5 Section Conclusion 9 APPENDIX 10 BIBLIOGRAPHY 11 LIST OF FIGURES Figure Mzoxolo Mayongo, "Ubukho be Ndoda" Demystifying the Phallus of Man. Introduction In postcolonial cultures like South Africa, the idea of masculinity is closely tied to gender, race, and class. The colonial power structures that favoured control, dominance, and the dehumanisation of Black men, often portraying them as overly sexual and primitive, significantly influenced traditional views of masculinity. [...]
[...] APPENDIX Figure Mzoxolo Mayongo, "Ubukho be Ndoda" Demystifying the Phallus of Man (Hadithi Africa). BIBLIOGRAPHY Connell, R. W. & Messerschmidt, J. W 'Hegemonic Masculinity: Rethinking the Concept.' Gender & Society, 19(6):829-859. Gennrich, D Understanding masculinity in South Africa-essays and perspectives. Pietermaritzburg Agency for Community Social Action, Sonke Gender Justice Network, 2. Gibbings, A Mzoxolo Mayongo: Demystifying the Phallus of Man. Art Africa Magazine. [...]
[...] [Online]. Available: https://artafricamagazine.org/mzoxolomayongo-demystifying-the-phallus-of-man-julie-miller-investment-art-instituteart-africa/ [2024, September 1]. Hadithi Africa Demystifying the Phallus of Man - Mzoxolo Mayongo. [Online]. Available: https://hadithi.africa/demystifying-the-phallus-of-man-mzoxolomayongo/ [2024, September 1]. Moolman, B Rethinking 'masculinities in transition' in South Africa considering the 'intersectionality' of race, class, and sexuality with gender. African Identities, 11(1):93-105. Ratele, K An invitation to decoloniality in work on (African) men and masculinities. Gender, Place & Culture, 28(6):769-785. [...]
[...] By challenging and deconstructing cultural norms associated with hegemonic masculinity, such as aggression and power, Mayongo portrays a vulnerable male figure, questioning the rigid patriarchal structures that have long defined masculinity. His exploration extends beyond idealised symbols, shedding light on how gender norms and traditional labour expectations contribute to ongoing domination in everyday life. By challenging these non-discursive practices, Mayongo advocates for a more adaptable and inclusive conception of masculinity while criticising the systems that perpetuate masculine authority (Connell, 2005:842). [...]
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