(Birds Nest – mixed
media by Izolda van der Merwe)
Currently running
at artSPACE durban is an exhibition by Izolda van der Merwe titled I See in Colour.
van der Merwe is
inspired by everyday objects, situations and people. Growing up in rural South
Africa, she was mesmerised by the beauty of the ordinary and still is today.
The things we take for granted, a view as you drive, a person walking down the
street. There is a sincerity in her day-to-day life that is portrayed in her
paintings, a whimsical movement which is captured through colour and pattern.
Working in mixed
media her art has been pushing the limits of different application processes.
This has opened up a world of possibilities in executing technique/creating
art, pushing those boundaries in growing her style of art.
I See In Colour looks at van der Merwe’s world and the
influence nature has on her life. Being an avid gardener and collector of aloes
and succulents, the geometric patterns and symmetry of the plant structures has
fascinated her. There is a sense of order in their construction, which
resonates with finding order in everyday life.
Great influences in
her work are Hung Liu (a Chinese-born American contemporary artist) and Michael
Carson (American painter). Their use of pattern and movement has added to the
freedom of expanding her technique and breathing life into the canvas. Being
aware of a “traditional” landscape or portrait style of painting has allowed
her to transform that visualisation/surrealism of her mind into a visible
reality for the viewer to partake in.
I See in Colour runs until March 2 at artSPACE
durban which is situated at 3 Millar Road (off Umgeni Road) close to the Waste
Centre. More information on 031 312 0793 or visit www.artspacedurban.co.za or www.artspacedurban.blogspot.com
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