---

The function of memory is a well discussed and analysed topic within the ambit of historical research. Drawing from theoretical texts by critical theorists, namely, Roland Barthes, Annette Kuhn and Marianne Hirsch, I will critically address the function of memory in the understanding of photography; particularly how photographs have the ability to construct our identity in terms of history and narrative. I will study the content of memory in relation to visual images, focusing on what is remembered, what is suppressed, and finally, what is transformed when viewing an image. By doing so, I will consider whether or not still photographs have the ability to construct the past in a narrative form that is intrinsic to its medium. This consideration will be undertaken with specific reference to the works of contemporary South African artist Lien Botha. Special attention will be directed to her series of work entitled Amendment (2006), a series which permits me in turn, to deal with issues pertaining to memory and visual narrative .

---

Xanthe Geyer grew up on a farm near Queenstown in the Eastern Cape. Geyer completed her undergraduate BFA degree at Rhodes University in 2007. She then continued to complete her Masters of Fine Art degree in 2010. She has since been living and working in Cape Town and is currently a senior lecturer of photography at Prestige Academy.

---