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.

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner

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.

Click below to read more. (The full article can be found on page 12)