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This paper examines the processes, materials, and influences of Karina Presttun, an artist who explores building abstract sculptures with twine made from second-hand fabrics. She discusses how her work aims to share emotions and visual experiences that do not translate well into text and how she has been inspired by fiber artists, basket makers, and music. She also reflects on the spiritual importance of craftsmanship, the risk of the academization of art, and using discarded materials to bring attention to the environmental impact of textile production. 4 images removed: Image 7. Patford, Gemma (design), DIY Rope Bowl [vessel made from hand-painted rope], 2013, https://collectivegen.com/2013/07/diy-rope-bowl/, accessed 21 February 2023.Direct image link: https://collectivegen.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/diy-rope-bowl-a-pair-and-a-spare-201-778x519.jpg---Image 19. Hopkins, Jan, Comtemplation, [sculpture made from agave leaves, yellow cedar bark & waxed linen], private collection, 2004, http://janhopkinsart.blogspot.com/p/fade-to-light-dimensions-19-12x14x9.html, accessed 21 February 2023.Direct image link: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oL_xzFstShg/UG9iiS-MNlI/AAAAAAAACIo/H_AgdTOeeQ0/s1600/contemplation_front_www.jpgImage 20. Grey, Alex, Dissectional Art for Tool’s Lateralus CD [ink on paper & acrylic on acetate], 2001, https://www.alexgrey.com/art/tool/dissectional-art-for-tools-lateralus-cd, accessed 21 February 2023.Direct image link: https://www.alexgrey.com/art-images/tool-dissectional-alex-grey-watermarked.jpg---Image 22. Jacobs, Ferne, Figure/Head, [object made from coiled and twined waxed linen thread], 2020, https://www.craftinamerica.org/blog/building-the-essentials-ferne-jacobs-4-2-2022-6-18-2022/, accessed 21 February 2Direct image link: https://www.craftinamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_5016edit.jpg

This article focuses of 13 high school boys’ experiences of getting into “trouble” in a former Colouredi township high school in KwaZulu-Natal Province. This ethnographic study explored the reasons for boys being considered “troublesome” ii at school. Data collection included focus groups, semi-structured open-ended individual interviews and non-participant observation. Using the social constructionist perspective of masculinity as an analytical lens, the findings show that these boys’ schooling experiences are fraught with anti-schooling, anti-academic and anti-authoritarian attitudes and behaviours. They construct themselves as dominant, unafraid and unwilling to conform to school rules, which brings them into conflict with authorities. While some of the group expressed determination to ameliorate their lives, others dropped out of school prematurely. Teacher attitudes are central to either perpetuating “trouble” or being sensitive to these boys’ schooling woes. Keywords: anti-academic; anti-authoritarian; Coloured; ethnography; high school; masculinities; “trouble”; “troublesome”; working class