The works in the exhibition are examples of the near infinite palate of human experience. By bringing them together in a single exhibition I hope to show the rich vibrancy of shared culture that has been such an important part of my life.
My South African heritage is very influential to my work. South Africa, like New Zealand, contains many interacting cultures. In my work I try to realise the commonalities rather than the differences in the cultures that I see around me. A similar melting pot of cultures exists in NZ – the country I now call home. This gives me continued inspiration to show the oneness we experience despite our differences. The subject of my paintings are not the landscapes of a particular time or place, but rather the people of all times and places. In coming to NZ I was not expected to abandon my cultural heritage, but instead was allowed to bring it with me – to add something to society rather than to take it away.
I work in acrylics on canvas because the craft of my work is as important to me as the artistry. I enjoy the layering process that my materials necessitate as it allows me to observe my labour coming to fruition. The style and subjects of my work reflect the inherent joy and beauty that can be found through practising art. I portray the diversity, beauty, character, vitality and emotions of people in narrative portraits. I try to draw the viewer in with form, colour and expressions.
To me art is expression that doesn’t require a specific forum. Anyone, anywhere could see a work that I have done and have a completely different experience to the next person. To me it draws upon what we have in common in order to celebrate the differences in society.
The above informaiton is courtesy of www.redspotgallery.co.nz
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