Symbol Detective

Objective: Explore symbolism and meaning.

• Choose one artwork and list 3 symbols or objects you see.

• What might each symbol represent? (e.g. snake = danger, amulet = protection)

• Write a poetic text that explores themes you have unveiled.

• Share your ideas with a partner and compare interpretations.

Suggested artists to explore: Malcolm Le Smith, Jumaadi, Prihatomoko Moki and Tamarra.

If you are in the classroom, use this link to view the works high-res 16albermarle - Ex #21_artworks

Malcolm Le Smith’s work is a humorous recreation of “Siksa Neraka” (The Torments of Hell). These images describe the punishments people will recieve in hell for their misdeeds on earth. “Torments of Hell” stories can be traced back to ancient Conufionist, Hindu, Islamic and Christian texts, and representations of them are found throughout South East Asia. In Singapore and in Thailand there are theme parks that portray the Torments of Hell. In Indonesia, Siksa Neraka comics were given to kids in Indonesia to scare them into obedience.

This work is accompanied by a book made up from the printed images.