Educational Media Reviews Online

Titles can be misleading. Africa: Between Myth and Reality, far from exploring the myths and realities layered about the continent as expected, is rather the title of an exhibit of the paintings and etchings of Betty Laduke, a professor of art at Southern Oregon State College. Laduke, while an American, has traveled extensively in Africa which is the inspiration and basis of her artwork.

Bruce Guenther, Chief Curator of the Orange County Museum of Art, introduces Laduke's works, their themes and meanings. Laduke provides the narration for the rest of the documentary, speaking of her inspiration for and intended meaning of various paintings. The documentary shows Laduke at her work, as well as photos of her trips to Africa, including many still photographs and close-ups.

As mentioned above, Africa is the inspiration for the artist, particularly African women. Laduke chooses the majority of her themes from the daily routines of women's lives, such as the market place, prayer, and preparation of food as well as the ideas of community and motherhood. The paintings generally portray a sense of happiness. There may be burdens in life, yet they are joyfully carried. Laduke also draws inspiration from local religions, particularly their goddesses.

This documentary is fairly well done yet has the feel of an amateur production in the framing of some of the scenes, the way that the paintings are displayed, and that there is also a slight shake to the film during the introduction at the beginning. This documentary is recommended only in specialized collections, such as those on American artists or perhaps Multicultural or Women's Studies. Suitable for high school and up.