DURBAN PRINT-MAKERS INK

Exhibition of printmaking artists at KZNSA Gallery.

Of all the forms of expression in printmaking, the woodcut is the most ancient. Its early beginnings in Egypt and China came from the use of wooden stamps designed to make symbolic or decorative impressions in clay and wax.

With the development of paper on the Chinese mainland in the second century AD, the stamping devices gradually evolved into wood blocks. Using this ancient form of art-making, Durban-based master printmakers Isaac Sithole, Ezequiel Mabote and Sizwe Cele here exhibit bodies of work using colour reduction woodcut techniques. This involves cutting away at the woodblock each time the colour is printed. The artists make small editions to produce prints that are saturated in deep colour, and rich in African mythology and symbolism.

Durban Print-Makers Ink runs until June 26. The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1703, fax 031 201 8051 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za