(Design for the “Cry,
the Beloved Country, poster by Andrew Verster)
Acclaimed film
producer Anant Singh pays tribute to the late Andrew Verster (dated February 19,
2020):
It is with great shock and sadness that I learnt today of the passing of
celebrated artist and writer, Andrew Verster. We both had a close relationship
with veteran activist, Fatima Meer and I initially met him through her in the
early 1980’s and we formed a friendship that endured for decades. In later
years his home and studio were across the road from my office in Essenwood Road
and we frequently popped in to visit each other.
I always admired Andrew’s talent and creativity, and I am fortunate to
have his paintings on the walls of my home. About 25 years ago, he created an
amazing collage which became the artwork for the teaser poster of my film, Cry, the Beloved Country. This
distinctive South African design caught the attention of distributors of the
film around the world who used the artwork effectively to market the film which
was one of the first films to be made in the country after the first democratic
elections in 1994.
South Africa has lost a creative talent. His spirit lives on in all the
incredible works of art he created in his lifetime.
My heartfelt condolences go to Andrew’s family and friends and I wish
them strength during this difficult time. - Anant Singh
The Memorial Service
for Andrew Verster will take place on Tuesday, 25th February, 2020, at 15h30 at
St Thomas Church, 190 Saint Thomaslaan, Musgrave, Durban. This will be followed
by a wake at 16h30 at St Clements, 191 Musgrave Road, Musgrave, Durban
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