Essensual Art Gallery

Updates on recent happenings

2011-03-03T19:40:00.002+02:00

After a year in the Clarens Info & Tourist Centre, the gallery has relocated to new premises. The new address is Post House Corner, Corner of Market & Main Streets, Clarens, Free State.

We are now situated around the famous square, next to Clarens Rocks and Dirt Road Traders. It took us all of 2 days to get the current location ready, paint, install the picture rails, clean up, move and hang the paintings. The move has already proven to be a positive one, since the gallery now has two entrances.

Market Street Entrance

Post House Rest Entrance

View from inside the gallery

The exhibition of Carl Verster has also done well, and has been met with a lot of positive comments from the public. For fun, we decided to play around and Carl brought along a small painting called "Imperfect Storm", we marked it as R7. Whoever spotted this "mistake" could then buy it for that price. It was only the day after the opening, that a lady came to enquire about the painting. So, an original Carl Verster, bought for a mere R7 - what a bargain!

Jacoline and her daughter, who spotted the "mistake" in price, and bought an original Carl Verster for R7

The next exhibition(s) will be held at the end of March and April respectively. First up is "Women in (e-) Motion, by Bloemfontein artist, Ia Crous.
(25 March - 5 April)

It's all about women (who else?) and their experiences throughout life. Women in (e-) Motion is a theme that touches Ia deeply, because she can identify herself with the phsycological struggle of the modern woman. She has to fulfil her task as woman, lover, mother, politician, friend, worker, and ..........yes! so many tasks to be done accordingly to the expectatons of the world around her and of cause according to her own unexpected inperfections. You are welcome to join us on Saturday 26 March at 6pm for a glass of wine. Come chat to the artist herself!

Next up will be Ester Grobler and Stefan Hofmeyr from Pretoria, over the Easter Week end holiday (29 April to around 2 May). Both of them are excellent in capturing the human form, expressing emotions in fluid organic lines. These are some of their current pieces in the gallery:

Ester Grobler: "Mortal Beauty" Oil on canvas

Stefan Hofmeyr: "Leilani's day off I" Oil on canvas

Hope to see you soon!
Blessings

Mercia

Carl Verster - Starving Artist: Songs on the Eve of Destruction - Exhibition Notes

2011-01-06T18:20:00.000+02:00

Carl Verster - Starving Artist: Songs on the Eve of Destruction - Exhibition Notes

What can you can expect to see at "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"

2010-12-07T13:42:00.000+02:00

I thought it would be nice to give you a sneak preview of what you can expect to see at this upcoming exhibition. ;)

"Arcadia"

"Echoes and Butterflies"

"Maid of Orleans"

"Moonlit Sonata"

Remember to join us for the opening on Saturday, 18 Dec at 7pm!

Blessings
Mercia

Interview with artist Carl Verster on his upcoming exhibition called "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"

2010-11-26T07:56:00.001+02:00

“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

Exhibition by Carl Verster: "Songs on the Eve of Destruction"

2010-11-06T11:25:00.000+02:00

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.

Article written for local magazine "Speckled Bean"

2010-06-21T20:24:00.000+02:00

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. ”

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

Next exhibition by Carl Verster called "Songs on the Eve of destruction"

2010-06-13T11:32:00.000+02:00

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"

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.

Butter yellow sunbeams dancing from cloudless sky.
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.

Remember to visit Essensual Art Gallery when you are in Clarens!

Blessings

Mercia

"Petite" Exhibition

2010-06-08T09:57:00.000+02:00

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

"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

Petite exhibition: Sepia range

2010-06-01T19:46:00.000+02:00

"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

"Petite" Exhibition scheduled for June/July

2010-05-15T20:32:00.000+02:00

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.

"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

New artist's work on exhibit: Stephan van Heerden

2010-04-14T08:41:00.000+02:00

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.

Sy skilder passie is meesterlike tegniek in sy werk. Mense wil gereeld weet hoe hy dit regkry om die vel so lewensgetrou te laat lyk, of waarvandaan die vrede en nostalgie kom wat uit sy skilderye straal. Stephan se skilder-tegniek het oor jare ontwikkel en is ‘n tydsame proses waarin die prent geleidelik ontwikkel deur die aanwending van verskillende lae verf wat elkeen eiesoortige aangewend word . Sy leuse is “You can’t rush art.” In sy proses van werk volg die lae van sy skildery mekaar op en mekaar aan, sodat daar by hom as skilder ook geleidelik beter waarneming, waardering en dieper insig in sy tema ontstaan.

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!

"Painting isn't an aesthetic operation; it's a form of magic designed as a mediator between this strange, hostile world and us, a way of seizing the power by giving form to our terrors as well as our desires." (Pablo Picasso)

Go to art class

2010-04-07T07:03:00.000+02:00

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.

Frances Lozear "How do I hold you with broken hands" Oil on canvas

(This piece has stirred many people, even made some cry!)

And this, too, shall pass away

2010-04-06T18:03:00.002+02:00

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.

Here is the list of her art:

1. Your symphony - Framed Oil on canvas

2. Eternally Found; Eternally Lost, Oil on canvas

3. Steps to Love I & II Charcoal sketch mounted

4. Blood Roses - Framed oil on canvas

5. How do I hold you with broken hands - Oil on canvas

6. Eternal love to come- Framed oil on canvas

7. Soul thoughts - Set framed oil on canvas

8. Don't forget your childhood dream - charcoal mounted

9. When you're too blind to see; listen with your heart - Oil on canvas

10. Hope "Nadezha" - Oil on canvas

11. Eternal Dream - Oil on canvas

12. "Om" Oil on canvas

13. How to walk with a sagitarian lover - charcoal mounted

14. Sending love across the distance - Oil on canvas

15. Holding the key of realization - Oil on canvas

16. Hold my heart for 5 minutes that I might not feel so much - Oil on canvas

I have had great feedback thus far on this exhibition - I've seen someone in tears and a gentleman breaking out in goosebumps. Everytime I stand in front of one of these paintings, they speak to me, stir my soul and I fall ever so more in love with each one of them!

Here are some links to reviews:

Carl Verster - Blog

Clarens Mag - Blog

Clarens Mag - Facebook

We are waiting for the video to be edited of the evening - we will post it as soon as it is available!

Once again, thank you to all! In parting: "The Eskimos have over 32 words for snow, because it is important to them. There ought to be as many for love"

Blessings

Mercia

Carl Verster - Starving Artist: Speckled Bean Article

2010-04-06T16:26:00.000+02:00

Carl Verster - Starving Artist: Speckled Bean Article

What is in a nude?

2010-03-23T06:40:00.000+02:00

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

SOLD: "Verstrengel; Vas; Vry!"

2010-03-22T07:32:00.000+02:00

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

Josephine: SOLD

2010-03-21T09:47:00.001+02:00

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!

;-)

Article in Speckled Bean: March Edition

2010-03-18T18:48:00.000+02:00

You will find an article about Essensual Art Gallery in the March edition of our local magazine, called Speckled Bean. It's available online as well, so vist the electronic copy and read the article on page 6. Click here to go to Speckled Bean.

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

Update: Exhibition by Frances Lozear

2010-03-15T07:45:00.001+02:00

...called “l’amour eternal pour venir” (the eternal love to come): The opening of the exhibition will be held on Saturday 3 April 2010, by official invitation only. Open to the public from Sunday 4th of April. If you are interested to attend the official opening, please email art@essensual.co.za. Otherwise, we would love to see you here on the Sunday! The exhibition will run for 2 weeks.

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!

You are what you eat - are you then what you paint?

2010-03-10T17:40:00.000+02:00

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

Sensual Photograhpy by Branden Hart

2010-03-03T18:38:00.001+02:00

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

I see your/you're back

2010-02-26T07:22:00.000+02:00

"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!

Genesis: The beginning of a journey

2010-02-18T07:20:00.001+02:00

Update on exhibition: Frances Lozear 3 April 2010 @ Essensual Art Gallery

Frances has created her own Blog (Yay!) and this is an extract of her post:

"... Being an artist being a bit split in two between the contemporary world that challenges people and their way of thinking to the painting of the human figure and paintings being used for Tarot, spiritual cards and lastly for book illustrations the later obviously because it sells and people and interior decorators love to hang beautiful works in their homes. Beautiful being art that is "easy on the eye"

I try and paint works that is emotionally moving, but also just what I am experiencing at that moment. I know if it touches me " the artist" that it will connect with the viewer.

Art has its own language even though you can't hear it the same way as music, you can see and feel its energy reaching within awakening a reaction of “I connect to this” or “I don’t like this” but it still provokes a reaction. Most artists paint to sell, others starve consumed by the emotion and art is everything because it is the only thing that makes sense and the only companion that has carried them through hardships...

I’m using the next two months to solidly focus on completing my works for my next exhibition now in April of this year. Because Clarens in its own warped way it has taught me real love and real loss."

To read more, visit her Blog: http://lozear-genesis.blogspot.com/

Charcoal Sketch: "Love is but a fleeting moment"

2010-02-15T18:08:00.000+02:00

While working on this sketch on Sunday, uhm, yes, Valentine's day - a gentleman enquired about purchasing it. He not only purchased this one, but wanted an accompanying male to go with it. So, there you have it - this lady is sold, and she will have someone to share the wall space with her!

I would like to have your comments on this piece - what do you think is going on with her emotionally, where is she and why is she half dressed - albeit only a hat and silky soft gloves?

I obviously have my own interpratation - hence the name "Love is but a fleeting moment" - but it will be really interesting to hear yours!

The question is why?

2010-02-15T12:23:00.000+02:00

On Saturday past, the gallery had many visitors, and I sat smack bang on the floor busy with a charcoal sketch. This attracted a few people who either made some remarks, or simply just stared. (Whether they admired the sketch and drifted off to their "happy place", or found me sitting on the floor with the sketch between my legs rather amusing, who knows?), someone asked me why I sketch nudes? At that moment I really did'nt have an intelligent, witty answer to give him, but since then I have seriously thought about it.. so here goes:

I tried to recall the times when I painted/sketched something different, i.e. roses. I tried the roses thing because my dear mother just loves roses - so I painted her this rose for her birhtday . She loved it of course - which I am grateful for, but the painting process itself left me empty. So I think therin lies the question to the gentleman's question - why do I like to sketch nudes?

Roses, landscapes, still life, you name them - are emotionless objects. They fill your vision for a moment, you enjoy their colour display, or smell their scent, or even touch them. But none of these objects can stir my emotions. What emotion do you see in the picture of the rose? Not very much I suppose! The rose has no soul, does not experience any emotional turmoil, it does not know love, sadness, hate or jealousy. It does not need to wear clothes to cover itself up, to hide behind anything. The nude on the other hand, has nothing to hind behind, his or her emotions and feelings are there to see in the lines of their bodies. Sketching the nude makes me face my own emotions, and because it's an emotional experience, can become a journey of self-discovery and sometimes a healing process.

So to answer the question then: Why do I like to sketch nudes? Because it is an emotional process, not in discovering the human body (That I did in Biology class), but discovering emotions that may have been hidden, undiscovered, thrown away or purposefully tucked away in a safe place, and once the sketch is complete, that particular emotion has been rediscovered, labelled, filed and stored in the correct place!

(Oh, plus I have been a bit of a closet rebel all my life - but that is an entirely different story!)

Happy Freaking Valentine's day ;-)

2010-02-13T23:02:00.000+02:00

Personally, I don't much fancy valentine's day - but it seems it is good for business - so therefore I won't complain too much. However, I think it's a sad state of affair for people to only want to celebrate love or express their feelings for their better half, ONCE a year. True feelings of love and devotion should be expressed every day, in the small and simple things we do for each other. Love is not found in a Hallmark card, or the cheap stuffed toy with the huge label "made in China". Love is a choice, a choice you make every morning when you wake up, a decision to be good to the one you love.

That being said, it has been a hugely succesful day for the gallery. I sold 3 paintings of Carl Verster (Carl, if you read this - you know what this means right?), one of my own, and got a commission job for a huge charcoal sketch for a couple who clearly adores each other, and can find joy in the sensual lines of the body. I salute you for looking beyong the obvious and that what society demands of you in the name of "morality".

Whatever you do on valentine's day - remember life, love and everything else is a choice - so choose to love fully, laugh like you mean it and don't take life too seriously.

Blue Lady: Sold

2010-02-11T08:52:00.000+02:00

Congratulations to the Blue Lady - she has been purchased and will be hanging in Ballito!

Website uploaded: www.essensual.co.za

2010-01-31T08:42:00.000+02:00

I finally finished the website! You can find it here: http://www.essensual.co.za

Please be patient while the images load - it's a graphic intensive site. It should work fine in both IE and Firefox, but personally I prefer Firefox.

If you have comments or shout-outs leave them here - if you don't like the site - close your browser and go to google! ;-).

If you would like to purchase any of the artworks - the site is unfortunately not e-commerce ready. However, you can send me an email to which I will reply with banking details etc. The purchased items will only be shipped once the amount is reflected. The shipping/courier costs will be for your own account.

Guest Book entries

2010-01-29T14:33:00.013+02:00

It has been a very quiet week so far, so I took the time to copy some of the Guest book entries to share with you. Most people who find the courage to walk through the door like what they see, others don’t seem to be offended by the nudity. Others turn around and mumble something incoherently as they shuffle off.

It is very interesting to watch the visitor’s reactions when they walk through the doors of the gallery. Out of respect for their varied and right of opinion, I will not repeat some of the comments I have overheard, so just let’s say some are nice to hear and others remind me that I have to count to 10! Grrrr

I have found a quote that probably sums it up perfectly: "Surely nothing has to listen to so many stupid remarks as a painting in a museum." ~Edmond & Jules de Goncourt~

But I guess that is the great value of art – what some people like, others find offensive or crude. Guess the same goes for life!

Guest Book entries: Essensual Art Gallery (Since 19 December ’09)

• Michelle Louw - New Zealand: “Amazing art!!! All the best for the future”

• Lizmari Louw – New Zealand: “So inspriring!! ;-) I love the art, it just makes me wanna paint. Blessings xox”

• Lyn Marais – Johannesburg SA “Congratulations on your opening. Great gallery.”

• Michelle – Clarens: “The poetry and paintings say it all!!! Good Luck!”

• Paul and Sheila: “Fantastic expression. Love it!”

• Dave Horn – Tanzania: “ Excellent depictions of the beautiful female form”

• Nadia Edwards – Polokwane: “Stunning”

• Heino and Carika “Wow!”

• Ashlin, Vincent, Solé, Stacey, Quintin, Petro Kayleigh: “Die kunswerke is asemrowend. Baie interessant en groot talent!” – Loosely translated: The artwork is awesome, very interesting and big talent

• Amanda Marier: “A moment in time – love it!”

• Ben Vincent – Van der Bijl Park: “Pragtige versameling” – Translation – Nice collection

• Dess – UK and Lance – New Zealand: “Inspirational and inspiring”

• Ez Wright: “Very awesome!”

• Amanda van Blerk – (Speckled Bean) Clarens: “Just what Clarens needed.”

• Annemarie – Heidelberg: “This gallery is fantastic. Wonderful energy; Beautiful art!! Blessings.”

• Lorna & Tracy: “The artwork and quotations touched our souls. Lovely, restful atmosphere.”

• Jaco and Susan: “WOW”

• Dirk and Ronell Mostert: “Pragtig!” – translation: Pretty

• Liza van den Berg: “Enige iemand se droom” – loosely translated: Anybody’s dream

New exhibition by Frances Lozear 3 April 2010 @ Essensual Art Gallery

2010-01-28T17:36:00.000+02:00

I am very excited to invite you all to the exhibition of Frances Lozear called "l'amour eternel pour venir" or "the eternal love to come". The opening is on the 3rd of April at Essensual Art Gallery, Clarens. This is her farewell exhibtion, as she is planning to move to Vancouver, Canada where her next exhibition will be during August 2010.

We hope you will be able to attend, but if not, I will post pictures of her work! For those interested to attend, the gallery is situated in Shop 7, Upper level, Clarens Tourist & Info Centre, Corner of Market & Roos Streets, Clarens, Free State. The exhibition will run for about 2 weeks.

Hope to see you there!

Regards

Mercia

Welcome to Essensual Art Gallery, Clarens

2010-01-26T17:00:00.001+02:00

I thought it will be a great idea to share the happenings of the gallery with you all, the events, latest news and of course, the art and the interesting artists behind it! Essensual Art Gallery is the only art gallery in Clarens that specializes in sensual art, such as nudes and semi-nudes, both paintings, sketches and sculptures.

Apart from the gallery, there is of course Clarens. Famous for its beauty, the mountains and the many art galleries that can be found in this quaint little village.

I hope you will like the art as much as I do and if you are interested to purchase any of them, you can email me at mercia.deale@gmail.com.