Fiona Kirkwood, Lee Scott-Hempson and Joanne Bloch at the NSA
Showing in the main gallery at the NSA is Fiona Kirkwood's ninth solo exhibition. Kirkwood is a recognised pioneer in the field of fibre art in South Africa. Combining art and weaving in highly textured mixed media works, she creates sculptural installations reflecting aspects of South African history, culture and politics. The coat, symbol of the human form, is used here as a metaphor for the protection of individuals in a transforming society.
Kirkwood studied at the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland and obtained an MAFA from Natal University, Pietermaritzburg. She has works in many public and private collections in South Africa, the UK and America. Kirkwood, well known as a teacher in local tertiary institutions, currently runs her own teaching studio and is involved with art as therapy.
The exhibition will be opened by Andries Botha, followed by a performance by Siwela Sonke Dance Theatre, choreographed by Jay Pather.
In the Park Gallery Lee Scott-Hempson, a fine arts graduate of Technikon Natal, exhibits recent works in a small solo show. Scott-Hempson is a practicing artist who earns her living teaching in the Design School at the ML Sultan Technikon and this exhibition reflects the influence of this part of her life on her art. Her work combines textile and fashion drawing styles with autobiographical symbolism creating highly emotive and reflective works fusing fine art, design and popular culture.
In the Multimedia Room 'Acupuncture' features work by Joanne Bloch. A Johannesburg artist who divides her time between journalism, photography and making art, Bloch focuses on pinboard installations. These evolved out of an obsession with collecting cheap, mass-produced plastic objects. Commenting on the excesses inherent in our consumerist culture they also speak of obsession, fetishism and greed. At the same time they challenge our notions of value and beauty and what we consider to be precious and worth treasuring.
Opening: November 6 at 6pm
Closing: November 24
NSA Gallery, 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood
Tel: (031) 202 3686
Fax: (031) 202 3744
Email: iartnsa@mweb.co.za
Website: www.nsagallery.co.za
Hours: Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 4pm, Sun 11am - 3pm