I’ve had the pleasure and privilege to work with Trent Read from the Knysna Fine Art Gallery for more than a decade. So I am feeling very excited and chuffed that my work will be included in a group exhibition (curated by Corlie de Kock) to celebrate the 20th Anniversary and this milestone with this gallery. The exhibition will open on the 9th of November 2017!

So I thought I will compile a ‘throwback-tribute” of some selected exhibitions I’ve had the honour of showcasing at Knysna Fine Art Gallery!

It all started back in 2003, when Trent Read gave me my first gallery show with an exhibition titled: “Siembamba, (the toys are us)”

back then I was experimenting with different mediums for example: plaster of paris and found objects; as well as Polaroids, and charcoal drawings

Trent was always very supportive and patient while I experimented with different mediums. “Cutting edge” followed in 2004: (unfortunately I do not have a lot of photographs from this exhibition):

by then I fell in love with saw-blades and dress-making pattern paper.

Trent has never been afraid of taking risks, and showcasing some daring exhibitions in a small town.  Shelf life in 2007 was a very fun and interesting project curated by Belinda Blignaut. It was the first time I undertook the process of a big installation. It basically contained elements of my processes, inspirations, experiments and works from 2002 until 2007

No strings attached followed in 2009: By then my son was born and I worked mostly with Dress-making Pattern Paper – interesting to look back now and see some experiments with stitching too…

and as you can see…’toys’ have always played a part in my work

as well as altered photographs

and more recently

2016 Implanted Memories:

It has been quite a journey, I’ve also met some amazing artists and collectors along the way! With some I even still have contact today. Thank you to all for the support and encouragement.

And a big thanks to the staff from Knysna Fine Art…it has been a wonderful experience to be able to work with you.

Congratulations!

Two decades is a milestone in any business but to survive as a gallery in a small town is quite special. As in any worthwhile journey there have been difficult times and none more so than the recent fires in Knysna which were an existential threat to the entire community. The reason we have succeeded is twofold – the support, work and friendship of wonderful artists and the same support and friendship from clients from across the country and around the world.

This anniversary exhibition also introduces our new curator, Corlie de Kock, and welcomes her to Knysna.

We would really love you to join us at the celebratory party if possible but do come and see us whenever you are in this wonderful part of the world.

Trent Read 2017