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www.thevillagenews.co.za
9 December 2020
MY ART
New exhibition by pioneering artist A
most unusual exhibition of salt and wax luminaries by artist and artisan chandler Gretha Quinlan opened at the FynArts Gallery on Thursday afternoon, simply entitled ‘Light’. Previously based in Greyton, Gretha now lives in Riviersonderend and in this body of work, which comprises her fourth exhibition of salt and wax luminaries, she invites viewers to explore a world under the sea – the textures and geometrics of starfish, anemones and ancient artefacts found on the sea floor, all sprouting aquatic flowers. This world only truly comes to light when illuminated against the dark. Each of these salt and wax luminaries holds a filler candle which can be replaced, while the outer shell is designed to last forever. In his opening address, local artist Jaco Sieberhagen described how Gretha goes about creating these other-worldly artworks. The pioneering
use of salt to create her moulds lends a unique texture to the final artwork. When the mould for each artwork is complete she pours white cement in the mould for the base, and wax in the mould specifically built for the top section. The next step is to break the mould to reveal the object, making each artwork a once-off casting from each unique mould. Another dimension is added to this exhibition by the display of Gretha’s photographs of the inside of each mould, taken before she pours in the cement or wax. Each photograph documents a beautiful cosmos that existed only a few moments before being destroyed by the casting process. The ‘Light’ exhibition can be viewed during December at the FynArts Gallery, The Courtyard, 2 Harbour Rd, Hermanus.
RIGHT: Local artist Kosie Thiart, who runs the Art@Africa-Hermanus Gallery, was fascinated by Gretha Quinlan’s salt and wax luminaries at the opening of her exhibition in the FynArts Gallery. LEFT: Gretha (right) with FynArts Festival Director Mary Faure. PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner
FynArts holiday programme FynArts is presenting a short entertainment programme during December that is uplifting, creative and fun for the whole family. The highlight is a music concert in honour of Beethoven’s birthday, followed by two workshops that are ideal for the holidays. Please note that FynArts adheres to social distancing, mask-wearing and all other Covid-19 regulations. Attendance is therefore limited and early booking is essential. All tickets are available at Webtickets, as well as via Chantel on 060 957 5371 or at the FynArts Gallery, The Courtyard, 2 Harbour Road, Hermanus. 1. A Festive Celebration presented by Richard Cock and Friends Wednesday 16 December at 15:00 Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus. Tickets R150 Richard Cock returns to Hermanus with Axolile Hoza (flute), Philippus
Hugo (piano), Tobias Kotze (baritone), Luvo Maranti (tenor), Lucia Di Blasio Scott (violin) and Stuart Scott (trombone). The concert will include a selection of festival favourites and readings appropriate to the season. December 16 is Beethoven’s 250th birthday and the programme will also feature music by the great composer and anecdotes about him. There will be some carols but unfortunately no singing, in line with current regulations. 2. Make a Festive Wreath Yvette Steyn-Churchman Thursday 17 December 10:00 – 12:30 Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus Tickets R300 (includes basic materials and light refreshments) What better way to celebrate the season than by making your own personalised festive wreath. Join this fun and creative workshop with florist, Yvette of Kelkiewyn in Caledon.
She will teach participants how to construct and decorate a fresh wreath using fynbos and other materials that are easily available. These wreaths will dry over time and give pleasure beyond the season. Further information about the workshop will be provided on sign up. 3. Become a Visual Storyteller Leanne Dryburgh and Peter Hassall Thursday 17 December 10:00 – 12:00 Venue TBA Tickets R300 It's holiday time which goes handin-hand with happy memories and taking many photos. But how good are they and what do you do with them? Join Leanne and Peter of thephotowalkers.com for this unique workshop and learn to tell your family’s holiday
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story on your cellphone. This workshop is packed with a punch and will introduce a whole new way of capturing your beautiful memories, as well as how to store or print them. All makes of cellphones welcome. FynArts is planning further events for a limited programme in January which will include Artisan Breadmaking at the new Daan’s Bakery. Watch this space for updates! 2
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