(Detail
from “Moonlight & Roses” by David Koloane, acrylic on canvas)
Running in the Lorna Ferguson Room of the
Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg is an exhibition titled The South African Landscape.
Selected from the Gallery's permanent
collection, this display features landscape paintings by South African artists.
The paintings are as varied as the South African landscape and show many
different ways in which artists engage with their environment. To a greater or
lesser degree, all of them deal with abstraction. Some images are easily
readable as particular places while others merely suggest space. All retain an
abiding respect for the two-dimensionality of the painted surface.
Landscape is used as a springboard for
diverse personal exploration. There are challenges of suggesting spaces with
marks and colour; engaging the viewer in experiencing particular weather
conditions and landscape formations; and inviting consideration of
environmental issues. Many of the paintings depict people, sometimes starkly
visible and at other times almost dissolved in the landscape. Ultimately, each
artist invites contemplation and emotional engagement with landscape.
The Tatham Art Gallery is situated opposite the Town
Hall in Chief Albert Luthuli
Street, Pietermaritzburg. It is open from Tuesdays
to Sundays from 10h00 to 17h00. More information on 033 392 2801 or visit www.tatham.org.za
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