Published 01 April 2018 in Publications
Art Times
EMOTION MOVES ART...
For me lasting artists are those artists that produce work, not only with paint but allowing their souls to “speak”. During the past 28 years I have had the opportunity, or rather, privilege to meet many South African artists that inspire me. What make some artists stand
out above others? I would like to think an artist must have something to say; whether it’s a political statement, hurt, pain, joy or laughter, a journey…..
It’s impossible to mention all the artists that inspire me, or had an impact on my life in this limited space, so I thought of highlighting some artists who move art through emotion.
Father Claerhout had the ability to look at a person and then painted his or her character. His works definitely grow on you. It’s this emotion that attracts buyers. I fondly remember his description of me:
“Your mind runs faster than your body can follow.” Anyone that knows me will agree. A gentle deep loving soul, Father Frans Martin Claerhout , has definitely influenced the collectors interest and outlook, especially mine. Looking at the market, we are definitely
experiencing a greater increase in popularity for his sculptures. While Alice Art Gallery has recently sold more than 30 of his bronze works, Strauss and Company and 5th Avenue Auctioneers has also experienced a renewed interest.
Amos Langdown is probably one of the best storytellers I have ever met. The story and the struggle of his community are clearly captured in his works: The woman foraging ahead against the “Noord-ooster”. Fishermen fixing their nets after a hard days work. On the
lighter side two women gossiping in the wind. Amos had a heart for his people, his spirit lives on through his works. Works by Amos are currently appreciating. He has something strong to say about his community - the immense effort and struggle required in
performing their daily tasks.
One of the artists, I believe, is contributing greatly to the market with exceptional impressions, is Michael Heyns. I have committed to what he has to say through his strong emotional link between words and pictures by dedicating the Michael Heyns Gallery at
Alice Art to him.
“The work starts with a feeling, or a title in Afrikaans and when I start with the actual work there is a conversation that, to me, is important and I’m also listening to what the work is telling me... Some works tell a story of a person with scars, who is damaged, who cannot defend himself.”
He is one of the most intriguing souls I’ve ever met and I cherish him dearly. Connection with art keeps us grounded, it shows us a little about ourselves. We tend to search for pieces that speak. Sometimes even about things we did not expect. How we are moved by art, often depicts how we move art.
