Artist Statement
I believe that art represents a powerful tool through which complicated emotions and issues can
be communicated to the world. For this reason I feel strangely empowered and liberated when I
make an artwork. Primarily I try to communicate that change is possible if you change how
people look at the world. My own creative process varies according to the medium I chose for
the creation of a specific artwork. Usually it starts with a lengthy process of concept
development. During this phase I try to simplify visual coding either through choice of medium or
the use of symbols. This is however a thin line to walk as an artist, because it is easy to fall in
the trap of over simplifying complicated issues. If you are not careful you will lose the viewers
attention. For this reason my work is multi-layered, seemingly simplistic, but if you dig beneath
the surface multiple interpretations and understandings of the work will emerge depending on
your own level of knowledge on the subject addressed. Often I make use of visual metaphors as
a means through which to communicate my concept to the observer. In other words through
combining seemingly unrelated objects or materials I try to explain new ideas about issues or
emotions experienced by contemporary society to the viewer. The above mentioned process
links with my own philosophy for the creation of a successful work of art. Art, in my view, must
be understood by the viewer. It must be relevant within the context of contemporary society, and
it must have a physical, lasting effect on the consciousness of the observer.
Many artists have influenced my work, but Joseph Beuys remains the one artist that influenced
my vision as an artist through his concept of democratic art. Beuys believed that the creative
process can change society. This belief greatly influenced me as a South African artist.
“The universe is transformation; our life is what our thoughts make it” (Marcus Aurelius).
