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Sunday, February 23, 2020

ANANT SINGH TRIBUTE TO ANDREW VERSTER


(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