Preserving an Artistic Journey an analysis of how archival documentary films preserve cultural history, combined with the development of a short archival film documenting the life and artistic contributions of the late South African sculptor, Michael Gasa.

Abstract

This study examines the role of archival documentary film in the preservation of cultural history and includes the production of a short archival documentary on the life and art of the late South African Sculptor Michael Gasa. The dissertation addresses the research problem, "What issues and insights about the role of digital archives in the preservation of South African cultural history are raised via the production of an archival documentary and an archival website on the life and art of the late sculptor Mr Bonginkosi Michael Gasa?". This study hopes to show, through the presentation of research and the curation of archival material, not only the importance of the role archival documentary film and the digital platform play in the preservation of heritage but also how this archival project promotes the idea of an African gaze, which Campt sums up as referring to 'a method of perceiving, understanding, and reflecting on the world, culture, and experiences through the eyes of an African' (2021). This is essential for preserving an authentic cultural voice and heritage. This study is conducted by following a practice-led slant, meaning the research primarily leads to new information about the practice. Practice-led research focuses on understanding the nature of practice and generates new knowledge that is meaningful and applicable to that practice. The primary goal of this research is to enhance understanding of practice or to contribute knowledge within the practice itself. (Candy; 2006) When conducting a study, the outcomes of practice-led research can be presented entirely in written form, without requiring a creative component. This approach integrates practice as a key element of its methodology and often aligns with action research. This differs from studies that incorporate physical artefacts or creative works as part of the submission, it puts an emphasis on advancing theoretical or practical insights about the practice itself. (2006) In this case, the practice will investigate the key elements that go into the production of an archival documentary and, secondly, the digital archiving of the project online. The study is designed using a case study approach, following the creative journey of Mr. Bonginkosi Michael Gasa, a sculptor who passed away on 18 April 2019 at the age of 55. The film about Mr. Gasa will be reported in the closing chapters of the study, which will also serve to elucidate the critical, theoretical, and cultural matrix from which the film emerges. The documentary film will be preserved on a website created using a free website builder, SITE123 and YouTube, both platforms serving as an online repository, curation, and record of Mr. Gasa's sculptures. Moreover, this paper and study hope to show that archives exist to be used for present and future generations and, in this way, can contribute to preserving our national cultural heritage.