Pic by Carol Brown)
Works by Andrew Verster from 1994 – 2008. (Review by Marianne Meijer)
Past/Present is a travelling exhibition of Andrew Verster’s works painted between 1994 and 2008. The exhibition opened at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, and was seen in Port Elizabeth. It is now on view at the Iziko National Art Gallery in Cape Town from there to Bloemfontein and after that it opens at the Durban Art Gallery on August 12.
A small book recently published by Fishwicks serves as a catalogue to the exhibition. It contains images from the exhibition, but offers much more. Edited by Carol Brown the book gives a brief overview of Verster’s oeuvre over the period from 1994 – the start of democracy in South Africa - to the present.
The publication celebrates, and portrays Verster- the man, the gay man - the painter, who designs jewellery and tapestries, costumes and stage sets – his ingenuity and creativity know no bounds.
The Artbio written by Brown is informative and comprehensive. The chapters written by his friends give a deeper insight into Verster’s life and what he means and has meant to others.
Peter Machen’s contribution is remarkable as he gives in 24 short paragraphs insight in Verster’s thinking, and even his wisdom.
Essays by Bronwen Findlay and Clive van den Berg, Brenton Maart and Nick Paul all make good reads.
Best of all are the pictures of Verster’s work including a variety of art forms: paintings - a series of tattooed life-size figures with marks one recognises from western and Indian cultures. There are also pen and ink drawings, sets from the operas, costume design, drawings and prints, but best of all are the images of his wonderful rich paintings.
In Verster’s words: If you ask me what I do, I reply “I’m a painter!”
Past/Present the book is available from Adams at R135. - Marianne Meijer
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