4 days ago
Parkwood exhibition breathes new life into a classic genre
A fresh new art exhibition: Still Life: A Contemporary Arrangement, was unveiled today at the Blue House in Parkwood. Presented by David Krut Projects, the show features 14 South African artists who give a modern twist to the traditional still life.
Read more: Strauss & Co invites residents to their latest exhibition
Open for the next four weeks until early August, the exhibition invites viewers to see everyday objects differently. Through paint, print, and mixed media, artists share personal stories and explore memory, identity, and reflection.
Well-known names like William Kentridge and Deborah Bell are featured, alongside emerging artists such as Boemo Diale and Stephen Langa, offering a mix of styles and voices.
Curator Amé Bell says: 'Still life is more than just a quiet moment; it's a space for reflection and creativity. This show shows how objects can speak… If we're willing to listen.'
Artist Maja Maljević adds: 'Sometimes a flower is just a flower, but in art it can mean so much more.'
One standout piece comes from Adele van Heerden, who painted her friend's bathtub as a place of calm and stillness. 'At home, we look for quiet moments. The bath becomes a space to pause and breathe.' Her work gently shows this space, complete with soft light, plants, and even a curious dog.
Other artists include Peter Cohan, Bronwyn Findlay, Heidi Fourie, Heike Jeske, Roxy Kaczmarek, Phumulani Ntuli, Nina Torr, and Anna van der Ploeg. Each bringing their own view to what still life can be today.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time and look closely. There's something quiet and thoughtful waiting to be found in every corner.
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