South African history and culture has had a profound impact on contemporary understandings of justice, nationalism, and human rights. This course explores contemporary art and performance in relation to the country's apartheid and post-apartheid social, political, and economic contexts. We will also examine the South African case in light of international discussions about social change, human rights, and contemporary struggles for justice. A key concern is how artists and artworks integrate histories of oppression and struggle into processes intended to re-imagine and reorganize an entire society. Students will read theoretical and historical texts alongside works of literature, film, music, visual art, photography, and design.