 |
| "Arcadia" |
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| "Echoes and Butterflies" |
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| "Maid of Orleans" |
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| "Moonlit Sonata" |
Blessings
Mercia
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
What can you can expect to see at "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"
I thought it would be nice to give you a sneak preview of what you can expect to see at this upcoming exhibition. ;)
Remember to join us for the opening on Saturday, 18 Dec at 7pm!
Blessings
Mercia
Blessings
Mercia
Friday, November 26, 2010
Interview with artist Carl Verster on his upcoming exhibition called "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"
“Songs on the Eve of Destruction” by artist Carl Verster at Essensual Art Gallery, Clarens. Opening 18th of December 2010 at 7pm.
When you first meet Carl, you sense that this is a shy and extremely reserved person, but once you gaze upon his paintings, you realise that he is a multi-dimensional artist, extremely individualistic and highly driven by the ebb and flow of emotions. Carl has been exhibiting his art at Essensual Art Gallery for the past year, and this will be his first solo exhibition. I asked Carl a few questions and this is what he had to say:
What inspired the exhibition theme and what does it mean to you?
I would rather not say too much about that and rather let the paintings do the 'talking', but this exhibition is my attempt at expressing an emotional state. The title refers, rather obliquely, to a number of interpretive eves as a collective. This was inspired by, and is about eve, and Eve generally; and specifically songs dealing with the core understanding of Eve, which is in essence "life". Really , for me this is a segment of life through my eyes. The subject matter, the tone, the expression is sometimes serious, as is life. I have painted what I sincerely felt, and yes often that reflects tragedy. The subjects may be on the dark side at times but they are soft, not hard, they are positive, not cynical and there is a hope that shines through.
You don't paint "pretty pictures", why?
Well, that's not entirely true. I hope that some of my paintings are pretty. But I also hope that even my pretty ones are more than just pretty. When you refer to "pretty pictures" I interpret that as being works that are purely aesthetic and have no 'soul'. In other words the art does not speak to you, it's simply pretty to look at. I hope that I never resort to doing that kind of work. Don't get me wrong, I believe that pretty pictures have their place in the art world. They do. But personally find it very intellectually and emotionally disengaging working on a canvas which says very little but just looks good. It's boring. Eventually eye-candy becomes dull. And I believe the sensitive viewer picks up on that. We all need a bit of a challenge.
Do you paint what you have experienced, or is it imaginative works?
Without trying to sit on the fence or hedge my bets in any way, both! My paintings are very often purely imaginative in content or subject matter and yet fully experienced in respect of what goes into them and what is trying to be carried through them. Yes, sometimes I will paint what I see and experience physically and through my senses, but I will always try and paint what I experience emotionally. Often I will hunt for subject matter based on what I am experiencing.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I could seriously fill a book on what inspires me. It's not always easy to pinpoint. Often I know exactly what prompted me, but from time to time it just happens. It whells up like water seeping from the ground, impossible to identify the root source. Those instances are I guess the result of a number of triggers, all coming together at once. So, what are these triggers? Well Almost every painting I produce stems from an inability to express intense emotion elsewhere; either not being permitted to, being denied the opportunity to or literally being unable to contain it. All it takes is one small trigger to release it in paint.
It's much easier to tell you what inspires in terms of those triggers that to tell you what actually drives me to create ... that emotional source. There is no mystery in what those triggers are. They are everyday things that everyone experiences, but music and memories play a particularly significant role in triggering work.
I must say I do find inspiration in the Old Masters, and you may see a little of that influence in my work here and there. I try not to be a slave to them though.
Do you believe that art can be therapeutic?
Absolutely! Both for the painter and the viewer! Painting for me is a sounding board in life, my therapist, and the intuitive viewer becomes an almost unintended voyeur to that counselling session. For me the after effect of that is a level of catharsism, at least until the need to do it all over again arises. I guess that makes me a serial painter?
You also write poetry - tell us more - does it coincide with any particular painting and do you feel a connection between painting and poetry?
I don't believe I am a particularly good writer, but I love writing almost as much as I love painting. To me both are forms of painting; one with a brush, the other with words. I truly see them as sister arts; two sides of the same coin. Sometimes my writing is closely linked to particular pieces, almost as subtitles to the visual message. Generally though I do not share that writing with others. It gives away too much, is too intimate and is selfish I think. I don't like imposing interpretations of pieces on people, and publishing accompanying poems or statements alongside the work does that.
Sonnet 24 by Shakespeare served as inspiration for his painting:
Mine eye hath play'd the painter and hath stell'd
Thy beauty's form in table of my heart;
My body is the frame wherein 'tis held,
And perspective it is the painter's art.
For through the painter must you see his skill,
To find where your true image pictured lies;
Which in my bosom's shop is hanging still,
That hath his windows glazed with thine eyes.
Now see what good turns eyes for eyes have done:
Mine eyes have drawn thy shape, and thine for me
Are windows to my breast, where-through the sun
Delights to peep, to gaze therein on thee;
Yet eyes this cunning want to grace their art;
They draw but what they see, know not the heart.
Please join us at Essensual Art Gallery for the opening of Carl’s exhibition. Experience Eve through his eyes and drink in the painted Songs of his art.
Blessings
Mercia Deale
PS: this interview will be published in the newly launced "InClarens" Magazine, Dec issue. On sale at selected outlets both in the Eastern Freestate and Gauteng
When you first meet Carl, you sense that this is a shy and extremely reserved person, but once you gaze upon his paintings, you realise that he is a multi-dimensional artist, extremely individualistic and highly driven by the ebb and flow of emotions. Carl has been exhibiting his art at Essensual Art Gallery for the past year, and this will be his first solo exhibition. I asked Carl a few questions and this is what he had to say:
What inspired the exhibition theme and what does it mean to you?
I would rather not say too much about that and rather let the paintings do the 'talking', but this exhibition is my attempt at expressing an emotional state. The title refers, rather obliquely, to a number of interpretive eves as a collective. This was inspired by, and is about eve, and Eve generally; and specifically songs dealing with the core understanding of Eve, which is in essence "life". Really , for me this is a segment of life through my eyes. The subject matter, the tone, the expression is sometimes serious, as is life. I have painted what I sincerely felt, and yes often that reflects tragedy. The subjects may be on the dark side at times but they are soft, not hard, they are positive, not cynical and there is a hope that shines through.
You don't paint "pretty pictures", why?
Well, that's not entirely true. I hope that some of my paintings are pretty. But I also hope that even my pretty ones are more than just pretty. When you refer to "pretty pictures" I interpret that as being works that are purely aesthetic and have no 'soul'. In other words the art does not speak to you, it's simply pretty to look at. I hope that I never resort to doing that kind of work. Don't get me wrong, I believe that pretty pictures have their place in the art world. They do. But personally find it very intellectually and emotionally disengaging working on a canvas which says very little but just looks good. It's boring. Eventually eye-candy becomes dull. And I believe the sensitive viewer picks up on that. We all need a bit of a challenge.
Do you paint what you have experienced, or is it imaginative works?
Without trying to sit on the fence or hedge my bets in any way, both! My paintings are very often purely imaginative in content or subject matter and yet fully experienced in respect of what goes into them and what is trying to be carried through them. Yes, sometimes I will paint what I see and experience physically and through my senses, but I will always try and paint what I experience emotionally. Often I will hunt for subject matter based on what I am experiencing.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I could seriously fill a book on what inspires me. It's not always easy to pinpoint. Often I know exactly what prompted me, but from time to time it just happens. It whells up like water seeping from the ground, impossible to identify the root source. Those instances are I guess the result of a number of triggers, all coming together at once. So, what are these triggers? Well Almost every painting I produce stems from an inability to express intense emotion elsewhere; either not being permitted to, being denied the opportunity to or literally being unable to contain it. All it takes is one small trigger to release it in paint.
It's much easier to tell you what inspires in terms of those triggers that to tell you what actually drives me to create ... that emotional source. There is no mystery in what those triggers are. They are everyday things that everyone experiences, but music and memories play a particularly significant role in triggering work.
I must say I do find inspiration in the Old Masters, and you may see a little of that influence in my work here and there. I try not to be a slave to them though.
Do you believe that art can be therapeutic?
Absolutely! Both for the painter and the viewer! Painting for me is a sounding board in life, my therapist, and the intuitive viewer becomes an almost unintended voyeur to that counselling session. For me the after effect of that is a level of catharsism, at least until the need to do it all over again arises. I guess that makes me a serial painter?
You also write poetry - tell us more - does it coincide with any particular painting and do you feel a connection between painting and poetry?
I don't believe I am a particularly good writer, but I love writing almost as much as I love painting. To me both are forms of painting; one with a brush, the other with words. I truly see them as sister arts; two sides of the same coin. Sometimes my writing is closely linked to particular pieces, almost as subtitles to the visual message. Generally though I do not share that writing with others. It gives away too much, is too intimate and is selfish I think. I don't like imposing interpretations of pieces on people, and publishing accompanying poems or statements alongside the work does that.
Sonnet 24 by Shakespeare served as inspiration for his painting:
Mine eye hath play'd the painter and hath stell'd
Thy beauty's form in table of my heart;
My body is the frame wherein 'tis held,
And perspective it is the painter's art.
For through the painter must you see his skill,
To find where your true image pictured lies;
Which in my bosom's shop is hanging still,
That hath his windows glazed with thine eyes.
Now see what good turns eyes for eyes have done:
Mine eyes have drawn thy shape, and thine for me
Are windows to my breast, where-through the sun
Delights to peep, to gaze therein on thee;
Yet eyes this cunning want to grace their art;
They draw but what they see, know not the heart.
Please join us at Essensual Art Gallery for the opening of Carl’s exhibition. Experience Eve through his eyes and drink in the painted Songs of his art.
Blessings
Mercia Deale
PS: this interview will be published in the newly launced "InClarens" Magazine, Dec issue. On sale at selected outlets both in the Eastern Freestate and Gauteng
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Exhibition by Carl Verster: "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"
Essensual Art Gallery cordially invites you to attend the opening of Carl Verster's first solo exhibtion, called "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"
Date: 18 December 2010 at 7pm
Venue: Essensual Art Gallery Clarens
Address: Uppel level, Clarens Info & Tourist Centre, Market Street, Clarens
To hint at what you can expect, here is a poem Carl has penned for his exhibition:
Adam’s lament
Endless waves of sea, meeting waves of sand,
Her prayers of absolution greet my name,
Her tears embrace all I am, eroding me; and
I am left here, wretched, broken man that I am,
Fending off the pain others breed and feed.
Dusk light prickling my eyes in the twilight,
Haunted in one breath, taunted in another,
Singing songs on, and to, and from this Eve;
Songs. Yes, songs on the eve of destruction,
I, a crashing wave, breaking on her shore.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Article written for local magazine "Speckled Bean"
Essensual Art Gallery: “Petite” Exhibition
Written by Mercia Deale
Current exhibition running from June through to July 2010 called “Petite” –is a collection of 20x20cm canvases by various artists throughout the country: Heidi Kern, Paul-Jacques du Plessis, Carl Verster, Barry Keyser and Mercia Deale. July submissions will be from Frances Lozear and Cheryl Walker. The subject matter varies, pieces called “Eros” and “Psyche”, by Carl Verster explores the emotion between the characters in Greek mythology. Another called “This Kiss” is accompanied by this poem he has written:
“Where do two souls touch?” he prayed
“The skin, fingers entwined?”
“Or here?” gestures to eyes
“Here,” she smiles
“This kiss” she says “This kiss of mine”
Mercia Deale has chosen couples as a subject matter, with pieces called “Sweet whispers” and “Be the light of my emotion”. It’s a sepia range which explores the emotions of couples in a loving embrace. She says “we all have experienced the closeness, the ecstasy, the protection of a loved one in an intimate embrace. It can feed the soul and keep you going for yet another day” She has also included a colourful series of woman’s faces half hidden, capturing their sensuality and showing that sensuality does not mean nudity.
Paul-Jacques du Plessis has submitted sensual lips that almost reminds of “pop-art” and Andy Warhol. Expression and communication can be done without ever uttering a single word – just by pouting those beautiful lips!
Barry Keyser is a digital artist, combining photography, fine art, possibly some abstract and surrealism in his images, but always honouring the essence of life: the nude. On his piece “Juvilent” he says: “In this piece, I captured the essence of ecstatic joy. The woman on her throne is sitting on top of the world, in control and even more so with grace. From the solar plexus chakra busts the yellow sunflower energy that protrudes through her whole being and invokes the childlike happiness, not just in herself but also in every person that looks upon her. ”
Other art is still available throughout the exhibition. Essensual Art Gallery specializes in sensual art, exploring the naked human form, celebrating organic lines, lines which produces strong emotion; emotion that is often not explored and faced in everyday life. What is our body without emotion? What defines us?
Artists that submit pieces do not do it for the purpose of selling art, but believe in conveying a strong message – one that states: This is you in all your glory, celebrate it and make peace with it! What subject has more emotion than a human being? How can a still life provoke you to rethink anything, how can a landscape stir up a long forgotten emotion? Therefore do not expect pretty pictures at Essensual Art, be prepared to fill your senses with visual education on the human form, smell the emotion, hear the colours and let it touch your heart.
Next exhibition is scheduled for September 2010 by artist Carl Verster, called “Songs on the Eve of destruction”
Located at Shop 7, Upper Level, Clarens Tourist and Information Centre, Market Street, Clarens.
Email: art@essensual.co.za
Web: www.essensual.co.za
Contact Mercia Deale: 082 210 6894
Written by Mercia Deale
Current exhibition running from June through to July 2010 called “Petite” –is a collection of 20x20cm canvases by various artists throughout the country: Heidi Kern, Paul-Jacques du Plessis, Carl Verster, Barry Keyser and Mercia Deale. July submissions will be from Frances Lozear and Cheryl Walker. The subject matter varies, pieces called “Eros” and “Psyche”, by Carl Verster explores the emotion between the characters in Greek mythology. Another called “This Kiss” is accompanied by this poem he has written:
“Where do two souls touch?” he prayed
“The skin, fingers entwined?”
“Or here?” gestures to eyes
“Here,” she smiles
“This kiss” she says “This kiss of mine”
Mercia Deale has chosen couples as a subject matter, with pieces called “Sweet whispers” and “Be the light of my emotion”. It’s a sepia range which explores the emotions of couples in a loving embrace. She says “we all have experienced the closeness, the ecstasy, the protection of a loved one in an intimate embrace. It can feed the soul and keep you going for yet another day” She has also included a colourful series of woman’s faces half hidden, capturing their sensuality and showing that sensuality does not mean nudity.
Paul-Jacques du Plessis has submitted sensual lips that almost reminds of “pop-art” and Andy Warhol. Expression and communication can be done without ever uttering a single word – just by pouting those beautiful lips!
Barry Keyser is a digital artist, combining photography, fine art, possibly some abstract and surrealism in his images, but always honouring the essence of life: the nude. On his piece “Juvilent” he says: “In this piece, I captured the essence of ecstatic joy. The woman on her throne is sitting on top of the world, in control and even more so with grace. From the solar plexus chakra busts the yellow sunflower energy that protrudes through her whole being and invokes the childlike happiness, not just in herself but also in every person that looks upon her. ”
Barry Keyser: "Juvelant" Digital Art printed on canvas
Other art is still available throughout the exhibition. Essensual Art Gallery specializes in sensual art, exploring the naked human form, celebrating organic lines, lines which produces strong emotion; emotion that is often not explored and faced in everyday life. What is our body without emotion? What defines us?
Artists that submit pieces do not do it for the purpose of selling art, but believe in conveying a strong message – one that states: This is you in all your glory, celebrate it and make peace with it! What subject has more emotion than a human being? How can a still life provoke you to rethink anything, how can a landscape stir up a long forgotten emotion? Therefore do not expect pretty pictures at Essensual Art, be prepared to fill your senses with visual education on the human form, smell the emotion, hear the colours and let it touch your heart.
Next exhibition is scheduled for September 2010 by artist Carl Verster, called “Songs on the Eve of destruction”
Located at Shop 7, Upper Level, Clarens Tourist and Information Centre, Market Street, Clarens.
Email: art@essensual.co.za
Web: www.essensual.co.za
Contact Mercia Deale: 082 210 6894
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Next exhibition by Carl Verster called "Songs on the Eve of destruction"
Yes! I have finally been able to convince this very talented artist to do his first solo exhibition. It will be held during the September school holiday (not sure of the exact dates yet, but will post them later on).
He has chosen a very interesting working title called "Songs on the Eve of destruction". Not only is Carl talented with a brush, he has ways with words that can leave you mesmerized and pondering about it for days. So this leads us to his working title - I was given a brief explanation and loved it! (Though I must admit, the pictures I conjured up in my mind will definately NOT be what Carl will produce - he is very secretive about what he plans - so it will be a surprise to all of us!)
Think about his title and feel free to give your thoughts about it - what do think it's about? What word play do you see in the title, what does it mean to YOU?
As always, I am excited to see what Carl will produce. He has submitted stunning little pieces for the "Petite" exhibition and included a poem with each one:
Carl Verster: "Dreams of Eros" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
In the theatre of my mind,
On the rapid eye reflex movie screens,
Playing on the insides of my eyelids,
There you will find,
music echoing memories of a bygone time.
Watch closely now as the act unfolds,
Real-life actors in a script of years,
"If this was movie," we said.
Remember? And it was and is.
Soundtracks trigger scenes,
In this theatre of my mind.
Carl Verster: "This Kiss" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
"Where do two souls touch?" he prayed
"The skin, fingers entwined?"
"Or here?" gestures to the eyes
"Here" she smiles
"This kiss" she says "this kiss of mine"
"The skin, fingers entwined?"
"Or here?" gestures to the eyes
"Here" she smiles
"This kiss" she says "this kiss of mine"
Carl Verster: "Eros" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
Shadows cast downwards from a half hidden moon.
Illuminating the planes of sylvan skin.
Tousled hair woven on pillow.
Fingers meshed.
Illuminating the planes of sylvan skin.
Tousled hair woven on pillow.
Fingers meshed.
Butter yellow sunbeams dancing from cloudless sky.
Gambol playfully over unmade bower.
Jumbled cloth on creased sheet.
Figures long left.
Gambol playfully over unmade bower.
Jumbled cloth on creased sheet.
Figures long left.
Carl Verster: "Psyche" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
A whisper, faint echoes,
drift through the trees
as the dusk closes in.
A pianissimo - faint tones of her wings beating,
as she makes her descent.
He, ensnared in the loving web,bound
by the chords of her souls song,
Meeting in muted clearing,
A fortissimo - immortal heart beating,
as they make their ascent.
drift through the trees
as the dusk closes in.
A pianissimo - faint tones of her wings beating,
as she makes her descent.
He, ensnared in the loving web,bound
by the chords of her souls song,
Meeting in muted clearing,
A fortissimo - immortal heart beating,
as they make their ascent.
Remember to visit Essensual Art Gallery when you are in Clarens!
Blessings
Mercia
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
"Petite" Exhibition
The "Petite" exhibit is taking shape. I am still waiting for more contributions from various artists, so will update once all of them have arrived. The exhibition will run until the end of July.
Once again, I would like to thank all the artists who is taking part in this exhibition. Without you and your wonderful talent, none of this would be possible.
Heidi Kern
Carl Verster
Paul-Jacques
Frances Lozear
Stefan Hofmeyr
Barry Keyser
July submissions will be from:
Jana van Schalkwyk
Cheryl Walker
Stephan van Heerden
Once again, I would like to thank all the artists who is taking part in this exhibition. Without you and your wonderful talent, none of this would be possible.
Heidi Kern
Carl Verster
Paul-Jacques
Frances Lozear
Stefan Hofmeyr
Barry Keyser
July submissions will be from:
Jana van Schalkwyk
Cheryl Walker
Stephan van Heerden
"Petite" Exhibit @ Essensual Art Gallery
A special thanks must go to Carl Verster - your insight to the display has worked! No more apples mixed with oranges! ;-)
So visit Essensual Art Gallery this school holiday - get away from the madness of the World Cup Soccer and come relax for a while in our village - you might even get to see some snow!
Blessings
Mercia Deale
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Petite exhibition: Sepia range
"Your sweet whisper" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
These are some of my works I will submit to the "Petite" exhibition. I am very excited about the "technique" - oils manipulated to remind me of charcoal, which of course is my first love ;-)
"This heart of mine" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
This range is very close to my heart, I decided to use couples as the subject. It does not matter whether we are married, single, gay or metro sexual - we all have experienced the closeness, the ecstasy, the protection of a loved one in an intimate embrace. It can feed the soul and keep you going for yet another day. It wraps around you like a warm blanket, giving you the security you so much need. Therefore, I dedicate this range to my husband, who has stood beside me through thick and thin, reaching deep into my soul to touch the artist who so desperately wanted to be alive again. I love you!
"Sweet kisses" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
"Sweet taste of you" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
Saturday, May 15, 2010
"Petite" Exhibition scheduled for June/July
It's been a while since I've posted someting...so just to let you know: The next exhibition will be held during the World Cup (are we allowed to even say the name without being fined by Fifa?).
It's called "Petite". All artists are welcome to submit works, only condition being that the canvas be no bigger than 20x20x4.5 cm. Your works should reach us first week of June, but before you send it, email me pictures of the works. Artists and photographers all welcome. Let's hope we can convince some of the overseas visitors to buy our art! Hopefully the small size will encourage them to purchase it and pop it in their hand luggage. We will also have a jewellery designer showing her designs and sensual greeting cards by photographer Branden Hart.
Personally, I have played around with faces and leaves/flowers. I thought to show that it does not take a naked body to show sensuality. It seems the subject is sometimes misunderstood.
It's called "Petite". All artists are welcome to submit works, only condition being that the canvas be no bigger than 20x20x4.5 cm. Your works should reach us first week of June, but before you send it, email me pictures of the works. Artists and photographers all welcome. Let's hope we can convince some of the overseas visitors to buy our art! Hopefully the small size will encourage them to purchase it and pop it in their hand luggage. We will also have a jewellery designer showing her designs and sensual greeting cards by photographer Branden Hart.
Personally, I have played around with faces and leaves/flowers. I thought to show that it does not take a naked body to show sensuality. It seems the subject is sometimes misunderstood.
"Autumn Creation" Oil on canvas 20x20cm (btw this was my first attempt at painting a black lady)
"Green Keeper" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
"I see" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
"Revealing the blues" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
"Thank you Lily" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
"Unveil your secrets" Oil on canvas 20x20cm
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
New artist's work on exhibit: Stephan van Heerden
Essensual Art Gallery wishes to welcome Stephan van Heerden to our gallery. Some of his art is now available - so visit us to view his fantastic work and don't forget to bring your credit card! ;-)
"Milly Cyrus" Oil on canvas
"Ester (Tweeluik)" Oil on 2 canvases
"Kevin" Framed oil on canvas
As kind wat nog nie kon skilder nie het Stephan altyd die Russies gebore Suid-Afrikaner, Vladimir Tretchikoff, se portrette bewonder. Tot sy verrassing het ‘n kunsversamelaar eenmaal na ‘n skildery van Stephan verwys as ‘n Tretchikoff en so het ‘n kinderfantasie waar geword.
We wish Stephan all the success he deserves and may he never loose his passion for painting, capturing his magical world into each and every one!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Go to art class
Go to art class, learn to paint I hear you say – anyone can paint. I say – go to hell. How dare you sum up a heart wrenching painting by saying anyone can paint? What do you know of the emotion that went into painting that piece you sneer at? You! You are shallow and wave your money around because you think anything and everything can be bought for a price. How would you know that pieces of my soul transferred onto that canvas; pieces of memories dripped onto the paint; some of my tears ran down the canvas? You! You know nothing of discovering yourself through the creative process. You wave your money and sit on a couch, paying your well known psychologist to listen to your shallow complaints.
Go to art class then! Dip your brush in the paint and see if you can feel what I feel. How can you? You have not walked in my shoes, felt what I felt, discovered what I have discovered. Art is but a piece of me, my name on the canvas means nothing compared to the complexities people like you create. My name is but a whisper in the vastness of the Universe. So paint your pretty pictures, hang them in your living room and pretend to feel what I feel. Shallow! Your grave is shallow, filled with nothing. People will not remember you because you attended art class! No one will remember my name either, but I have lived a simple life. I have experienced the connection with my paint brush; it has become my lover, my worst enemy, my best friend! Through it I have discovered emotions you only read about in your fancy book club meetings. I have felt in ways you can only dream about. My emotions had enlightened me to plains in the Universe you know nothing about. My universe is not connected to yours, my life is my own, my art is not yours – your eyes see what your mind permits you to see. My eyes are free.
Note to reader: This was written in (somewhat angry) response to a remark overheard of a person telling her companion that she should go to art class “because anyone can paint” while they were briefly viewing the exhibition.
Go to art class then! Dip your brush in the paint and see if you can feel what I feel. How can you? You have not walked in my shoes, felt what I felt, discovered what I have discovered. Art is but a piece of me, my name on the canvas means nothing compared to the complexities people like you create. My name is but a whisper in the vastness of the Universe. So paint your pretty pictures, hang them in your living room and pretend to feel what I feel. Shallow! Your grave is shallow, filled with nothing. People will not remember you because you attended art class! No one will remember my name either, but I have lived a simple life. I have experienced the connection with my paint brush; it has become my lover, my worst enemy, my best friend! Through it I have discovered emotions you only read about in your fancy book club meetings. I have felt in ways you can only dream about. My emotions had enlightened me to plains in the Universe you know nothing about. My universe is not connected to yours, my life is my own, my art is not yours – your eyes see what your mind permits you to see. My eyes are free.
Note to reader: This was written in (somewhat angry) response to a remark overheard of a person telling her companion that she should go to art class “because anyone can paint” while they were briefly viewing the exhibition.
Frances Lozear "How do I hold you with broken hands" Oil on canvas
(This piece has stirred many people, even made some cry!)
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
And this, too, shall pass away
Frances Lozear Exhibition: Eternal love to come
"It is said an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words: "And this, too, shall pass away.""~ Abraham Lincoln
So then, I guess the opening of the exhibition has passed too, but wow! It was amazing and we had such fun with everyone there to enjoy it with us!
There are some people I would like to thank:
To my husband: You stir my inner soul; you urge me to reach heights I have never dreamed possible - I thank you and I love you!
To Frances Lozear: You are a wise and gentle old soul with whom so many souls can connect; you inspire others and have stirred the emotions of so many people viewing your art - I salute you! Congratulations on your exhibition - we hope the eternal love to come finds you; embraces you with its all and lifts your spirit to enfold you in its Love.
To everyone who supported both me and Frances: Thank you! Without you, this would not have been possible.
To everyone who attended: Thank you for coming, some from Clarens, some from far away. We are grateful that you took the time out in your busy schedules to celebrate this artist's work.
Most of the pictures of the evening and the art have been posted on our Facebook Group.
"It is said an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words: "And this, too, shall pass away.""~ Abraham Lincoln
So then, I guess the opening of the exhibition has passed too, but wow! It was amazing and we had such fun with everyone there to enjoy it with us!
There are some people I would like to thank:
To my husband: You stir my inner soul; you urge me to reach heights I have never dreamed possible - I thank you and I love you!
To Frances Lozear: You are a wise and gentle old soul with whom so many souls can connect; you inspire others and have stirred the emotions of so many people viewing your art - I salute you! Congratulations on your exhibition - we hope the eternal love to come finds you; embraces you with its all and lifts your spirit to enfold you in its Love.
To everyone who supported both me and Frances: Thank you! Without you, this would not have been possible.
To everyone who attended: Thank you for coming, some from Clarens, some from far away. We are grateful that you took the time out in your busy schedules to celebrate this artist's work.
Most of the pictures of the evening and the art have been posted on our Facebook Group.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
What is in a nude?
Does modern society have any place for art, and in particular, the nude? What is the difference between modern and contemporary art depicting a semi-nude and that of the semi-nudes painted by the old masters? By certain standards, fat naked babies with wings are acceptable, but a nude depicting the glorious and sensual lines of a woman’s body is not?
Ester Grobler: Acrylic on canvas 500x500cm “Josephine”
Here is Josephine, she is not pretending to be somebody by the way she dresses, nor is she trying to seduce you. You are simply an onlooker; catching a brief glimpse of her in an intimate moment.
The question is then, is it art or is it something else? It is up to the onlooker to decide. As the saying goes: “Love is in the eye of the beholder”, so then too is art in the eye of the beholder.
As artist, Carl Verster put it: “In my opinion there are two important questions to be asked when it comes to the subject and formulating an opinion on the nude.
1. Is it art?
2. Is it moral?
So, is it art?
It would be a foolish to argue that a painting or sculpture is not art simply because the subject lacks clothes. Equally foolish would be to argue that every nude picture is art.
I have little difficulty in determining whether a picture of a tractor is a technical diagram or a work of art! Why? ... because of the context and intent! If it's in a textbook, it’s a technical diagram ... if it’s a painting of a rusty tractor in a field with unusual lighting and angles, hanging in someone’s lounge; one can assume it is art.
Michelangelo’s “Creation of Adam" or "David"? Medical study? Art work? Were they produced for medical study reasons? Hardly practical! Was it produced to titillate? Inconceivable!
Likewise, a photo in an ‘adult magazine’ is clear in its intent. If the context is wrong and if the intent is not 'artistic' in nature, it isn't art.
But is it moral?
Again, context and intent.
Nude paintings cannot in themselves be immoral. If the intent of the artist is purely to sexually excite the viewer... it is pornography. If the focus is form, light and highlighting the beauty of organic lines, well, then it's probably art. Be careful here not to confuse the reaction of the viewer with the intent of the artist. If the artist's intent is to display the beauty of form and light and the viewer is inadvertently aroused by the painting, it doesn't disqualify the piece. It may still have both artistic merit and be moral. After all, if a sexual deviant who is turned on by say, high heel shoes, is aroused by a painting of a shoe, the viewer is the problem, not the artist. It's all down to intent.
The human body is beautiful, the lines are incredible and the organic form fascinating. Our bodies are something that unite us and define us all ... they our connected humanity. Personally I can think of few subjects nobler, more rewarding or more empathetic for viewers than the nude”
With thanks to Carl Verster.
Hope you all have a fantastic week.
Blessings
Mercia
Here is Josephine, she is not pretending to be somebody by the way she dresses, nor is she trying to seduce you. You are simply an onlooker; catching a brief glimpse of her in an intimate moment.
The question is then, is it art or is it something else? It is up to the onlooker to decide. As the saying goes: “Love is in the eye of the beholder”, so then too is art in the eye of the beholder.
As artist, Carl Verster put it: “In my opinion there are two important questions to be asked when it comes to the subject and formulating an opinion on the nude.
1. Is it art?
2. Is it moral?
So, is it art?
It would be a foolish to argue that a painting or sculpture is not art simply because the subject lacks clothes. Equally foolish would be to argue that every nude picture is art.
I have little difficulty in determining whether a picture of a tractor is a technical diagram or a work of art! Why? ... because of the context and intent! If it's in a textbook, it’s a technical diagram ... if it’s a painting of a rusty tractor in a field with unusual lighting and angles, hanging in someone’s lounge; one can assume it is art.
Michelangelo’s “Creation of Adam" or "David"? Medical study? Art work? Were they produced for medical study reasons? Hardly practical! Was it produced to titillate? Inconceivable!
Likewise, a photo in an ‘adult magazine’ is clear in its intent. If the context is wrong and if the intent is not 'artistic' in nature, it isn't art.
But is it moral?
Again, context and intent.
Nude paintings cannot in themselves be immoral. If the intent of the artist is purely to sexually excite the viewer... it is pornography. If the focus is form, light and highlighting the beauty of organic lines, well, then it's probably art. Be careful here not to confuse the reaction of the viewer with the intent of the artist. If the artist's intent is to display the beauty of form and light and the viewer is inadvertently aroused by the painting, it doesn't disqualify the piece. It may still have both artistic merit and be moral. After all, if a sexual deviant who is turned on by say, high heel shoes, is aroused by a painting of a shoe, the viewer is the problem, not the artist. It's all down to intent.
The human body is beautiful, the lines are incredible and the organic form fascinating. Our bodies are something that unite us and define us all ... they our connected humanity. Personally I can think of few subjects nobler, more rewarding or more empathetic for viewers than the nude”
With thanks to Carl Verster.
Hope you all have a fantastic week.
Blessings
Mercia
Monday, March 22, 2010
SOLD: "Verstrengel; Vas; Vry!"
Anna M Bosman: "Verstrengel; Vas; Vry!" Framed Oil on canvas was sold yesterday. The purchaser was absolutely in love with this painting - it's great to see such appreciation on someone's face when they stand in front of a painting, drinking in what they see and watching them staring at the painting in awe.
I think this painting will be much admired by it's new owner and I am glad that it was bought by an individual with such love for contemporary art who obviously celebrates the human form!
To the artist: Anna - well done! I am very proud of you, and to convey the message from the purchaser: "Please tell the artist this piece is stunning, keep painting!"
Mercia
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Josephine: SOLD
Ester Grobler "Josephine" 500x500 Acrylic on canvas was sold yesterday.
I hope she brings her new owner plenty of joy and share some of her secrets....
Hope you have a stunning long week-end!
I don't have much more to tell you...the mind is off somewhere, having a long-weekend of its own!
;-)
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Article in Speckled Bean: March Edition
Thanks to Speckled Bean for their interest in Essensual Art Gallery, for Amanda van Blerk for her wonderful words and Cassy for her outgoing, wonderful spirit!
Blessings
Mercia
Monday, March 15, 2010
Update: Exhibition by Frances Lozear
Venue: Essensual Art Gallery
Address: Upper level, Clarens Info & Tourist Centre, Market Street, Clarens
Date: Saturday 3 April
Time: 7pm
Entry: By invitation only
Contact: Mercia Deale via email or 082 210 6894
This exhibition is dedicated to emotional bonds, both the pain and ecstasy of love and the everlasting effect thereof.
So, show YOUR love by attending what promises to be a fantastic exhibition by an excellent artist! Mercia Deale, 082 210 6894, Essensual Art Gallery , Clarens
PS: I have added the event to the Facebook Group - please join the group if you haven't already and invite your friends!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
You are what you eat - are you then what you paint?
Ok, so this is not really an arty farty post - no truthful insights into the mind of the emotionally disturbed, somewhat moody artist. Just a post to let you know the blog is still alive - JUST!
I had NO idea that detoxing the body can result in such pain! Normally, I am not a sissy, I just grin and bare whatever my body throws at me. But this time, my body has declared WAR! How can one's muscles ache and pain when you have not excercised? Headaches seem to be my constant companion and overall tiredness my true friend. Wondering why? I visited a homeopath recently and disturbing issues were raised. Not to bore you with my ailments, let's just say I had to seriously rethink my eating habits and what the food I'm stuffing my face with is causing. To get to the point of the post: I guess you really are what you eat!
Apparently, sugar is my worst enemy - not because it gives me the unwanted curves - but because I have been diagnosed with hypoglycemia (fancy word for low blood sugar) and a string of other things... I have been living with my body all my life (ok, at least I hope so - I can't remember if I bought tickets to astro travel) that I just accepted the way my body felt. Hearing a complete stranger tell you what exactly is wrong with your body and the associated symptons is really weird. You nod your head in acknowledgement, and think to yourself..."so that's the reason!" I must admit, hearing that low blood sugar and Hypoadrenalism (underactivity of the adrenal glands) is the cause of so many symptoms and "ailments" that I have suffered from, was a relief! I was NOT going crazy, the heart pulpetations was not because of the dreamy guy driving by, the sweating was not because I was entering my midlife crisis, the dizziness was not because I was passionately kissed and the tiredness was not because of the constant attention the kids demanded! Phew! What a relieve.
So, here I am, detoxing and wishing I had never gone to the homeopath in the first place! (Yes, feeling extremely sorry for myself!) But in all honesty, I will keep going because the promise of feeling better is much more alluring than the drained, tired and moody person I once felt.
But my mind left for a second, and I thought if you are what you eat, are you also then what you paint? I don't think I have the capacity to answer this one right now, so I will leave it up to you to give me some insight!
Here's to healty eating habits!
Cheers!
Mercia
I had NO idea that detoxing the body can result in such pain! Normally, I am not a sissy, I just grin and bare whatever my body throws at me. But this time, my body has declared WAR! How can one's muscles ache and pain when you have not excercised? Headaches seem to be my constant companion and overall tiredness my true friend. Wondering why? I visited a homeopath recently and disturbing issues were raised. Not to bore you with my ailments, let's just say I had to seriously rethink my eating habits and what the food I'm stuffing my face with is causing. To get to the point of the post: I guess you really are what you eat!
Apparently, sugar is my worst enemy - not because it gives me the unwanted curves - but because I have been diagnosed with hypoglycemia (fancy word for low blood sugar) and a string of other things... I have been living with my body all my life (ok, at least I hope so - I can't remember if I bought tickets to astro travel) that I just accepted the way my body felt. Hearing a complete stranger tell you what exactly is wrong with your body and the associated symptons is really weird. You nod your head in acknowledgement, and think to yourself..."so that's the reason!" I must admit, hearing that low blood sugar and Hypoadrenalism (underactivity of the adrenal glands) is the cause of so many symptoms and "ailments" that I have suffered from, was a relief! I was NOT going crazy, the heart pulpetations was not because of the dreamy guy driving by, the sweating was not because I was entering my midlife crisis, the dizziness was not because I was passionately kissed and the tiredness was not because of the constant attention the kids demanded! Phew! What a relieve.
So, here I am, detoxing and wishing I had never gone to the homeopath in the first place! (Yes, feeling extremely sorry for myself!) But in all honesty, I will keep going because the promise of feeling better is much more alluring than the drained, tired and moody person I once felt.
But my mind left for a second, and I thought if you are what you eat, are you also then what you paint? I don't think I have the capacity to answer this one right now, so I will leave it up to you to give me some insight!
Here's to healty eating habits!
Cheers!
Mercia
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Sensual Photograhpy by Branden Hart
I asked a few artists to write something on the subject of nude art/sensuality, what is their take on the subject, what inspires them, why did they choose the particular medium etc. etc.
I could rant on and on about the subject, but without further ado, here is the article written by photographer, Branden Hart. (You might even see some of his work exhibited at the gallery soon!)
Photography, by its nature has been used to document, to preserve and allow us to manipulate fleeting moments that pass us by.Sensual photography is no different, it allows us to capture the beauty of a body, manipulated or un-manipulated, and present it in a way that is pleasing to the eye and the soul.
My journey with sensual photography started almost 8 years ago, with the standard basic digital camera, a willing nude model, and some stunning scenery whilst working in Tanzania. As such the images were, bar the beautiful model, unstructured and basic at best. However the ideas of combining a model and scenery took hold.
Many years down the line I have learnt a few valuable lessons. Not only in photographic technique, but the effect it has on the models.
In order to understand the experience of sensual photography, it is necessary to break it down. See the art for what it is, the resistance to it and the result of the shoot.
Unfortunately the words erotic, sensual, boudoir and nude, in South Africa at least, are equated to sleaze, porn and the rather more “grungy” underbelly of the twilight world. Many South African Photographers have tried with mixed success to lift the Fine Art Nude photographic study out of the tainted shadows to the same levels as achieved internationally by photographers like Craig Morey, Jock Sturgess, Pascal Baetens, Petre Hegre, Elinor Carucci and the more risqué Didier Carré.
The fact that this article is being written for a website of a gallery dedicated to the sensual nature of the human form is a testament to the change in perception ad acceptance of our craft.So … What is our craft?
Our craft is the capturing and presentation of the human form in its most basic of state … NUDE.
Using shadow and construction, to hint at a stolen moment, a taboo piercing or tattoo, the love between a couple, the gorgeous curves of a pregnant mother, the ageing and maturing lines of an older model.
Our craft is the liberation of the human form in a way that is emotional, more than visual.
I always find it interesting, how whilst we work in a visual medium the effects that our work has is almost always emotional, for the viewer and more often the model.
I base my work largely on personal portfolios requested by clients, whether it be a maternity shoot for posterity, a boudoir shoot destined to be a gift for a lover, or in preparation for a more the commercial venture of stock photography, sale and exhibition. Having almost all my clients being stock standard everyday women, mothers to be, or mothers “been” I am amazed at the emotional affect our craft has on the ladies we photograph.
Every one of my clients found the sessions liberating, empowering, emotional and challenging. Not once have I had a model walk into the studio and walk out the same person. My best referrals come within two weeks of a shoot and to date all my referrals have been word of mouth.
Thanks Branden for your input. He has indicated that more articles will come our way focusing more on types of shoots and techniques. You can view more of his work at http://www.voodooexhibitions.co.za/
Have a blessed week
Friday, February 26, 2010
I see your/you're back
"IC UR BACK" Male & Female
Charcoal on recycled card board - Framed with glass 770x1070mm
I had some requests for line drawings, "more abstract" they said. So here they are: a male and female - I have to admit, I struggle with the "abstract" part of the design and sketching of such a piece. I don't know if my mind is not twisted enough or am I struggling to connect to the inner child who can draw an innocent picture? I was wondering why such a great artists as Pablo Picasso would have a model sit for him if the portrait came out so abstract and almost disfigured? Another thought - if I draw a triangle and call it "women sitting unappropriately" will it be called modern art, abstract art or contemporary? To me it will be utter rubbish, but then again, I am not world famous!
By the way - the photo is awful - seems us artists should stick to painting and not try to take photos! But the pieces look much better in real life - so best you visit us to see them for yourself. (Wink, wink, nudge nudge)
Have a fantastic week-end!
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