Artist CV

Born 8 November 1956 in in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa

“Figurative Art describes artwork – particularly paintings and sculpture - that is clearly derived from real object sources, and therefor by definition representational. Figurative Art is often defined in contrast to Abstract Art.

Since the arrival of abstract art, the term figurative art has been used to any form of modern art that retains strong references to the real world.

The formal elements, those aesthetic effects created by design, upon which figurative art is dependent, include line, shape, colour, light and dark, mass, volume, texture, and perspective. These elements are used to create an impression or illusion of form and space. Usually, to create emphasis on the narrative portrayed.

Figurative art is itself based on an understanding of abstracted shapes: the figure sculpture of Greek & Egyptian antiquity was not naturalistic, for its forms were idealized and geometric. Idealization gave way to observation, and figurative art which balanced ideal geometry with greater realism was created.”

Above is a quote from an unknown source that I, as an artist and sculptor, finds particularly true to my vision.

I have a respect for the basics of the craft of sculpture that exists in the sculpture of all societies. The argument of art versus craft has traditionally had very little relevance in most societies and I believe that this argument has run its course in the contemporary debate. Keeping in mind that the word “art” comes from the Greek “ars,” which means craft. Thus, during a period of high art, the best craftsmen were valued.

I first began studying painting and drawing, but soon discovered my desire to sculpt: to be physically involved with the materials. It spoke to me very deeply.

I realized that the body’s language and movements could manifest through the artform of sculpture. I therefor explore the human figure to create a dialogue around our shared humanity generally refraining the use of any other “props” or symbolism.

Exhibitions & Commissions

2023 (Current)

• Solo Exhibition Perpetuum Mobile at Artbox Gallery, Pretoria
• Gallo Precast – Commissioned to sculpt directly in cement two sets of Hands 3m High & 4m Long for a public fountain in Johannesburg, Gauteng

2022

Was commissioned by:

• Private Client, Elna Rudman Brokers Cc to do a portrait memorial bust of Roald John Rudman
• Private Client Fergusson Films – to make two pairs of Life-size Praying Hands after the drawings of a sketch of the German Renaissance painter Albrecht Dürer
• Sports for Social Change Network – to create the SSCN Champion Award - Madiba Trophy of Nelson Mandela based on the 9m Figure at the Union Buildings
• Private Client – to create a one-fifth scale donkey to be used as a memorial sculpture
• NuEarth Group Landscaping – to create a 3m tall Abstract Female Figure for a private Client
• Lambinon Interiors – to carve a wooden coffee table (Protea Design)
• Private business ALZU – 1,45m memorial figure of a Golfer (Paul du Toit Sr)
• Private Client – Life-size figure on Ndebele Woman carrying wood
• Gallo Precast – Collaboration to sculpt directly in cement a Southern Right Whale for the new Promenade on the beachfront East London Buffalo City EC
• Gallo Precast – to sculpt a life-size Elephant & Over life-size Lion for the Airport of King Mswati III, Swaziland

Group exhibitions at:

• Annual Members’ Exhibition (Pretoria Arts Association
• Group Exhibition at Johann Van Heerden’s Gallery, Pretoria
• Perfume Privé Workshops (Franschhoek (Dirk Durnez) ArtatAfrica
• Art@TheClocktower V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
• Clarens Arts Festival – Sculptures in the Park Group Exhibition Curated by the Addy Hoyle Gallery (Lyn Hoyle), Clarens
• Group Exhibition at Apogee Boutique Hotel, Pretoria
• Mystic Boer Group Exhibition at Johann Van Heerden’s Gallery, Pretoria
• St Lorient – Rooftop X Group Exhibition
• St Lorient – Sandton Acsiopolis Hotel - Group Sculpture Exhibition, Johannesburg

2021

Was commissioned by a private client, Mteto Nyati to do:

• Mike Nyati – a 1,9m Memorial Statue to be erected at the Eastern Cape

Was commissioned by a private client, Djidjo Thierry to do:

• Kadji DeFosso – a life-size half figure bust Memorial Statue to be erected in the Cameroon

Was commissioned by a private client, SAMCRO Memorials to do:

• Mkhombo – a life-size Memorial Portrait Bust
• Shona Fergusson – a life-size Memorial Portrait Full Figure

Group exhibitions at:

• Members’ Exhibition (Pretoria Arts Association)
• Grand Provence (Franschoek)
• Perfume Prive Workshops (Franschhoek (Dirk Durnez) ArtatAfrica
• Group Exhibition at Johann Van Heerden’s Gallery, Pretoria – currently new works for this in process.
• Group Exhibition at Apogee Boutique Hotel, Pretoria
• Group Exhibition “Pretoria Sculptors” and Artist Proof Studio at Pretoria Arts Association

2020

• Was commissioned by a private client, SAMCRO Memorials and in conjunction with Southern African Development Community (SADC) to do:
• Julius Kambarage Nyerere – a 2,75m Memorial Monument to be erected at the African Union Peace and Security Building, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• During 2020 I was also commissioned by Gallo Precast Pretoria (CEO Claudio Del Gallo) to construct various Architectural Elements for the Palace of King Mswati III (Swaziland) the King’s Office, Ezulwini, Royal Villa – this is an on-going Project.
• Commissioned to do a Memorial Portrait Bust (life-size) Bronze of Tebogo Masike (Private)
• Commissioned by Kim H Interior Design (& Nelson Mandela Foundation, Houghton) to do a half Life-size sculpture (Bronze) of Nelson Mandela with Newspaper for the newly converted Residence into a Boutique Hotel

Group exhibitions at:

• Members’ Exhibition (Pretoria Arts Association)
• Grand Provence (Franschoek)
• Art@TheClocktower V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
• Group Exhibition at Apogee Boutique Hotel, Pretoria

2019

Was commissioned by a private client, SAMCRO to do:

• Woman with Hat – a Life-size memorial portrait bust
• Portrait of a Zulu Woman – a Life-size memorial portrait bust

Was commissioned by a private client, CWDi to do:

• Eagle Trophy – a small trophy

Was commissioned by a private client, PSG Brinkfin (Pty)Ltd to do:

• NY Charging Bull Trophy – a small trophy
• In the beginning of 2019, I was approached by a private Business from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and commissioned to do a Marquette (Scale model) of their President Joseph Kabila on a Horse. If this proposal is successful, it will be a Life-size Equestrian Statue of Joseph Kabila flanked by 4,4m high Tusks forming the “Arc de la Democratie”. This sculpture will be erected in Kinshasha, DRC. This included a life-size Bust of Joseph Kabila.
• In collaboration with fellow sculptor Willem Botha, built an artificial rock face Dimensions 3m H x 2m W x 4m Long. (Pride Rock – as in Lion King) for well-known conservationist Kevin Richardson.
• During 2019 I was also commissioned by Gallo Precast Pretoria (CEO Claudio Del Gallo) to build a 4,5m long Whale in cement – an inter-active sculpture and water feature for a shopping centre.

Group exhibitions at:

• Members’ Exhibition (Pretoria Arts Association)
• Alliance Française (Pretoria)
• Grand Provence (Franschoek)
• Art@TheClocktower V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
• Art Box (Pretoria)
• Respek – “Wens”

2018

Was commissioned by a private client, Adv. Lucas van Tonder (Montpellier de Tulbagh) to do:

• Dancing – Figurine 1/5th Life-size to commemorate a deceased friend
• Bust – to commemorate a deceased friend
• Have recently been chosen as one of four finalists for a Public Artwork in honour of Nelson Mandela at De Krook, Ghent Brussels.

Was commissioned by Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) and The Department of Arts South Africa, to do:

• Nelson Mandela – a Life-size figure in Bronze for the United Nations, New York, United States of America (In Collaboration and partnership with fellow sculptor André Otto Foundry)

Group exhibitions at:

• Agapanthus Gallery (Kalk Bay)
• Grand Provence (Franschoek)
• Pretoria Kunskamer (Pretoria)
• The Boutique Gallery (Kalk Bay & Franschoek)
• Daniel Kok Gallery – Hemel-en-Aarde) Hermanus
• Boschendal Wine Estate
• Art@TheClocktower V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

2017

Chief Langalibalele II – Commission for The Castle of Good Hope Cape Town (In collaboration & partnership with fellow Sculptor Ruhan Janse van Vuuren)

Was commissioned by Gallo Precast Pretoria (CEO Claudio Del Gallo) to create various architectural designs and architectural Elements:

• For the Palace of King Mswati III (Swaziland) ornamental scrolls for the garden Gazebos (On-going Process)
• Water Feature Canal 12m long for the International Airport of Swaziland

Was commissioned by a private client, Rodrigues Family to do a Life size Freefall Figure in bronze of:

• Freefall - Figure in Dining area (Unique work)
• 2/3rds life-size Female Figure (Poise) Edition 1/7 Bronze

Group exhibitions at:

• Cavalli Estate Art Gallery (Stellenbosch)
• Dorp Street Gallery (Stellenbosch)
• Agapanthus Gallery (Kalk Bay)
• Grand Provence (Franschoek)
• Pretoria Kunskamer (Pretoria)
• The Boutique Gallery (Kalk Bay & Franschoek)
• Daniel Kok Gallery – Hemel-en-Aarde) Hermanus
• Boschendal Wine Estate
• Art@TheClocktower V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Solo Exhibition:

• Conjoined Murmurs – (Pretoria) Art Lovers 1932

2016

Was commissioned by Gallo Precast Pretoria (CEO Claudio Del Gallo) to build from various architectural designs and architectural Elements:

• For the new Palace of King Mswati III ornamental scrolls for the garden Gazebos’
• For the new Palace of King Mswati III - Water Fountain (Water feature) & additional ornamental architectural Designs
• A 4m tall Tallystone in cement (replica of the archaeological Tallystone found at the Blombos cave) for the Dept. of Statistics in Pretoria

In collaboration & partnership with fellow Sculptor Ruhan Janse van Vuuren.

Was commissioned by The National Heritage Foundation for The national Heritage Project, to do three Life size figures in bronze of:

• Chris Hani – Long Walk to Freedom Project
• Fidel Castro - walking with Flag
• Fidel Castro (Salute) – Life-size, Freedom Park Bloemfontein

As well as:

• Fidel Castro (Salute) – 3m Tall (Fidel Castro Building - Bloemfontein)
• Netcells commission - Johannesburg

Group exhibitions at:

• Cavalli Estate Art Gallery (Stellenbosch)
• Dorp Street Gallery (Stellenbosch)
• The Studio Gallery - Kalk Bay
• St Lorient – Group Exhibition opening of new Shopping Complex (Menlyn on Maine) in Pretoria
• Tina Skukan Gallery – Group Exhibition
• The Leonardo Gallery – Solo Exhibition
• St Lorient – two-person Exhibition with Ilandi Barkhuizen
• Pretoria Kunskamer (Pretoria)

Donation of “Dancer” to Chefs who Share’s annual fundraising event (Edition 1/7 Fiber-glass)

2015

Was commissioned by Gallo Precast Pretoria (CEO Claudio Del Gallo) to create from various architectural designs and architectural Elements:

• For the new Palace of King Mswati III ornamental scrolls for the garden Gazebos

Solo Exhibition at Whalehaven Wine Estate – Hermanus

Group Exhibition at South Hill Wine Estate – Western Cape

Group Exhibition at Gallery on Leviseur – Bloemfontein

Group Exhibition at Equus Art Gallery (The Four Horsemen) (Nov) Somerset West

Rooftop Exhibition at St Lorient (July) Pretoria

In collaboration & partnership with fellow Sculptor Ruhan Janse van Vuuren.

Was commissioned by the Mokbel Family to do a life size Bust in bronze of:

• The late Mr Mokbel – Businessman

2014

Was commissioned by Gallo Precast Pretoria (CEO Claudio Del Gallo) to build from architectural design a Water Fountain:

• Water feature for DRC – Lubumbashi including life-size sculptures of Female figure, Leopard & Crocodile

Group Exhibition - St Lorient Art Gallery (Pretoria)

Group Exhibition - Arts Association Pretoria

Koketso Growth – Launch of the National Heritage Project at the Fountains Valley Pretoria

Group Exhibition at Equus Art Gallery (Franschhoek)

Bust of Nelson Mandela in conjunction with Koketso Growth (in collaboration)

Nominated for the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa (MBOISA) at The Design Indaba (for the Sculpture of Nelson Mandela at the Union Buildings)

2013

Started a collaboration partnership with fellow Sculptor Ruhan Janse van Vuuren in which we did the following:

Was commissioned by The House of Memory (CEO Vusi Mchunu) to do three Life size figures commemorating:

• Monument of Archbishop Denis Hurley & young boy (Kwa Tintwa School for the Deaf) Pietermaritzburg Municipality KZN
• Griffiths Mxenge
• Victoria Mxenge

Was commissioned by The National Heritage Foundation to do three life size figures in bronze of:

• Chief Langalibalele
• Dr Abdullah Abdurahman
• Cissie Gool

Was commissioned by Koketso Growth (CEO Dali Tambo) to do a 9m Tall figure in bronze of:

• Former President Nelson Mandela (Union Buildings)

2012

Was commissioned by The National Heritage Foundation to do two Life size figures in bronze of their on-going project Long Walk to Freedom commemorating past Struggle Heroes of South Africa

• Hadji Ojer Ally
• Chief Makhado

Various Older Exhibitions:

• 1993 – SA Association of Arts (N Tvl) (June) two-person exhibition with artist Patsy van der Reis. Volkskas Bank Art Centre
• 1992 – Department of Fine Arts, Univ. of Pretoria (Aug) Group Exhibition 19 Artists
• 1992 – The Art House (June) Solo Exhibition of bronze sculptures
• 1992 – Pretoria Art Museum (Dec) Group Exhibition of Pretoria Painters & Sculptors
• 1991 – Desré Resnick Art Gallery Two-person exhibition with painter Johannes Du Plessis
• 1990 – Gallery on the Market (Dec) Group Exhibition of miniature paintings & sculptures
• 1986 – Karen McKerron Gallery (Bryanston) two-person exhibition with painter Marnus Havenga
• 1975 - 1978 – College for Advanced Education (C.A.T.E.) (P.E. Technikon – Art Department) various Student Exhibitions

WORK EXPERIENCE

1979 - 1980 SANDF (National Service)

For 18 months during this two-year period I worked in the Sculpture Department of the military’s Shows & Exhibitions doing trophies and other relevant sculptures i.e. Busts & Relief Panels

1981 -1982 Co-founder with fellow sculptor H.L. McDonald of MacAndré Foundry. Extensive experience in downdraft kiln-building, traditional lost wax investment casting, mould making & relevant disciplines

1982 – 1983 PACT (Provincial Arts Council of Transvaal)

I worked in the Props (Requisites) Department where I did my first larger than Life carvings in polystyrene seven meters tall for the opera Nabuccu as well as a variety of props and other theatre skills.

1983 – 1986 SANDF (Permanent Force)

During this 3.5 year period I worked in the Sculpture Department of the military’s Shows & Exhibitions. One of my main sculptures of this time was a life-size Figure of a soldier in bronze in front of The Military Academy in Saldanha Bay. Another was a Parabat Memorial of three half life-size Para-trooper in Bronze at their Battalion in Bloemfontein. During this period we also developed a bronze foundry for the SANDF to do it’s own trophies, busts and other sculptures.

1987 – 1988 (July ’87 – June ’88) University of Pretoria (Fine Art Department)

I was employed as a technical assistant in Sculpture Dept. and work under Prof Mike Edwards & Prof Nico Roos. During this time I worked in the Sculpture Department’s foundry and did numerous bronze castings (including work for well-known sculptors Eduardo Villa, Maureen Quin, Johan van Heerden, Dorta Berner & Caroline van der Merwe.

1988 – 1996 Sets Etcetera (Co-owner & partner)

Partner in small business, building theatre & TV sets & Requisites.

Lectured Part time in the Sculpture Department at the University of Pretoria.

Worked as freelance sculptor under Kobus de Beer on The Lost City Project at Sun City (carved the Palm Fronts of the big arches at Krugersdorp studios)

1997 Tshwane University of Technology (Lecturer in the Props (Requisites) Department. Entertainment Technology

1998 – to June 2013 Creoterra Cc

Partner in small business, manufacturing Cement Fibre Pots and Garden Sculptures. I designed and sculpted and made the complete range of pots/planters & garden sculptures. During this time I also helped various sculptors (like Suzanne du Toit) with mould making (Silicon, Polyurethane & fibre-glass) and Casting work in Cement, white cement, F/glass and various other materials. Also sculpted, moulded, and made fibre-glass casts of three over life-size mythological figures (mermaid, Merman, sea turtle, Leopard, crocodile, etc.) for Fountains for Gallo Precast (Pretoria) to be exported and installed in Lubumbashi, DRC.

EDUCATION

1974 Matriculated - Cillié High School – Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth

1975 - 1977 National Diploma in Sculpture - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) (then College for Advanced Technical Education) under Sculptor Phil Kolbe

1978 Higher National Diploma in Sculpture (specializing in Terra Cotta) - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) (then College for Advanced Technical Education) under sculptor Phil Kolbe and ceramicist Hylton Nell.