Origninal Art works inspire all new designs, this year it was “The Farnham Nest series”

It is always exciting working on an exhibition. To be showcasing your work in one of the most prestige galleries in Pretoria. We always enjoy having exhibitions there. The atmosphere is lovely and people are warm hearted. Still one of the few galleries I really make effort to get my work at. This will be the fourth exhibit I have at Tina Skukan gallery in the past 10 years. Only this time, due to lockdown, there was no big opening event. The first for most of us. It was a pity as we always make a huge fuss on Opening day. Always a Speaker to welcome everyone and tables filled with snacks and drinks for the thirsty. We hope that 2021 will be back to normal. Nevertheless, it was a great success.

Tina Skukan Gallery exhibition – “Through the Lens of the Artist”, 18 July – 12 August 2020

The work is part of “The Farnham Nest series” which hints to the idea of where home is. These weaver nests are in my backyard. The birds are superior architects – designing beautiful safe havens – the craftsmanship is beautiful done.  I love the use of different objects used by the weavers to build their nests. The woven texture is visually mesmerizing. It is intriguing how these magnificent creatures have the ability to make something so incredible with only their beaks – beautiful and strong enough to endure extreme weather.

With the combination of the King Protea, it captures not only our heritage but also the symbol of belonging – our own home – our own nest building.

Where we find ourselves now today, 2020, in a worldwide epidemic – to be forced back into our own homes and environment has relevance. Time to reflect on our surroundings, to reflect on what is important, and to reflect on what will endure…

May we all be blessed with our own strongly build mental nests to get through the tough time that has fallen upon us.

My “Farnham nest “- series was not intended to talk to the theme of our epidemic – it was a coincidence – as if the theme came to life before the outbreak has begun.