Pic: Detail of Keiskamma Altarpiece
International project of Make Art/Stop Aids opens at Durban Art Gallery on February 25.
The exhibition Not Alone - An international project of Make Art/Stop Aids opens at the Durban Art Gallery on February 25h.
The exhibition started at the Fowler Museum in Los Angeles where it was shown last year. The project, under which it was first shown - Make Art/Stop Aids - is acknowledged in the title. This version is a newly-curated one which has been conceptualised for South Africa and other venues. Many issues addressed in the earlier version have now changed, particularly with treatment access in South Africa and the exhibition is concerned with this change.
A work made in South Africa, the Keiskamma Altarpiece, was unable to be shown in the original exhibition due to size restrictions and it is a great coup to show this work for the first time in Durban. It toured cathedrals in the US and London to great acclaim last year and has achieved iconic status. The project leader, Dr Carol Hofmeyer, will be present at the opening.
Another highly significant piece is Medicine Man made out of 300 medicine bottles and syringes used by the two artists and their friends and the larger-than-life sculpture is a testament to living positively and an inspiring work. One of the artists, Daniel Goldstein from the US will also be present. Felix Gonzales-Torres, a Cuban born artist who died of Aids in the 90s was recently honoured with a retrospective at the Venice Biennale and his work is represented in most major international collections. His beaded curtain called Blood is another highlight and this is the first time his work has been shown in Africa. Some wonderful Patta scrolls made in a craft project in India form a visually rich display.
The exhibition is an important survey of initiative and artworks on the theme of Aids from four continents. A programme of educational and community events will be organised during the show.
Not Alone - An international project of Make Art/Stop Aids runs at the Durban Art Gallery from February 25 to mid-May. More information from Carol Brown on phone/fax: 031 202 3072 or 083 778 1192.
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