3. 1
In an environment where art competitions come and go, I am
proud to be the patron of Absa L ’Atelier’s 23rd competition. It’s not
only the oldest art award in the Southern hemisphere, it is also the
richest in Africa. And it remains the most prestigious award on
any South African artist’s CV.
Aimed at nurturing young talent, Absa L ’Atelier has been
instrumental in launching many careers in the visual arts.
A number of the finalists have developed into success stories.
Last year, the Alliance Française, the French Institute and the
French Embassy renewed its sponsorship of the Gerard Sekoto
Award for the most promising artist with an income of less
than R60 000 per annum. We thank them for their continued
support for L ’Atelier and their investment in our young artists.
Further testimony to the success of our competition is the steady
rise in the quality of works entered. This year the standard was
exceptionally high, and the judges had their work cut out to select
the finalists, the merit award winners and the two top awards.
We at Absa also pay close attention to the concerns our young
people communicate through their art. It is quite moving how
articulate they are in the visual form they give to the challenges
they face.Violence and crime is still highly prevalent in their work.
Lately issues of identity started surfacing, and this year a deep
inner search was reflected in this regard.
I would like to congratulate all of the winners. Make the most of
this opportunity to further your careers.
And to all the others:apply the valuable experience you have gained,
and keep up the good work.We hope to meet you again next year!
Steve Booysen
Absa Group Chief Executive
Foreword
4. 2
Celia de Villiers
Coordinator of National Selection
Frikkie Eksteen
Pretoria
David Jones
Port Elizabeth
Theo Kleynhans
Cape Town
Melissa Mboweni
Johannesburg
Air ticket to Paris, France sponsored by Absa
This catalogue has been compiled by Cecile Loedolff, Manager: Art, Group Marketing, Absa.
Published by Absa, member of the Barclays Group.
2008 Absa L ’Atelier Awards Catalogue
ISBN 978-0-620-41294-0
National selection panel
The Absa L ’Atelier Art Competition is presented annually by Absa in
conjunction with SANAVA (South African National Association for the
Visual Arts). It is a competition for young artists in the age group 21 to
35 years.Works of art were selected in Bellville, Bloemfontein, Durban,
Johannesburg, East London, Port Elizabeth, Polokwane, Pretoria and
Thohoyandou by a local panel of selectors guided by Celia de Villiers
on behalf of the National President of SANAVA.The selected works of
art have been sent to Johannesburg for final adjudication.
The Absa L ’Atelier Award
5. 3
Introduction
Art gives us the opportunity to reappraise the ambiguities,which surround us and give
new meaning to them. In the Absa L ’Atelier Awards,this happens through a democrat-
ic process of adjudication,which involves analytical viewing,interpretation,appraisal
and the selection of artworks. Final decisions are based on socially determined factors
such as the juror’s ethnicity,gender,knowledge of formal art principles and a familiar-
ity with contemporary international art trends. Owing to these differences,there are
often disagreements,although this year’s winner was a unanimous choice. Once the
selection has been made,the opinions of jurors are transferred to the viewers,resulting
in the notion that the selected artworks are objects of value. This valuation is not only
reliant on the juror’s understanding of the orthodoxies of a particular moment in the
history of a society,but also an understanding of the viewer and the artist.
The young artists who enter competitions like the Absa L’Atelier Awards do not merely
produce artworks. They manipulate contemporary cultural signs.They reflect the chal-
lenge of defining and measuring the effectiveness of a sense of self within dominant
socio-cultural myths and media. For many artists,conveying meaning through the
presentation,measuring and shaping of attitudes and beliefs results in a confronta-
tion of their personal fears.In 2008 this process of osmosis has revealed the current
thematic concerns of prohibition and transgression.
With the unstable regulation of social order in South Africa at present,it seems
deeply human for the average citizen to have an idealised,unrealistic and mythi-
cal desire to be in a situation of predictable unity and stability. The current surge of
transgression against this impulse is reflected in numerous artworks. Two primary
taboos,death and sexuality, emerged repeatedly in all the adjudicated regions.
Another theme this year was the acceleration of violence and its influence on young
people. These trends might be explained by the 20th century French writer Georges
Bataille,who has drawn attention to the inevitable connection between the horror of
death and eroticism,since both deal with mortality.The fear of death and pain is the
opposite of pleasure,whereas eroticism holds the promise of the abolition of limits
and eventual immortality. The exponential presence of crime and the AIDS pandem-
ic ensures that these thoughts pervade the consciousness of most contemporary
South Africans. The narratives of the artists included in this show,many of which are
poetic in nature,evidence an emotional eroticism, which has today perhaps become
more dependable than physical eroticism.
To condense the selection of the 23rd Absa L ’Atelier Awards,one need only examine
the judges’criteria. It is hoped that the works on show will be found to be authentic,
sincere and socially relevant,possessing integrity and a unique South African flavour.
Celia de Villiers
Coordinator
6. 4
It is a singular privilege and with great satisfaction that I, on behalf of the South
African National Association for the Visual Arts (SANAVA), may extend a word
of warm appreciation to Absa, and its relevant personnel, for having organised
this very successful 23rd Absa L ’Atelier Competition, hosted in collaboration with
SANAVA. The sustained efforts by Absa in promoting the development of the visual
arts, and in particular the artistic potential of all young South African artists, whose
talents should be stimulated or roused from its slumber, are indeed highly valued.
I pay tribute to all participants in this esteemed, long running national competition,
and congratulate those whose outstanding merit will be recognised.To those who
have not been fortunate enough, this time, to be selected for the top team, I wish
to say‘bon courage’for next time. And to the judges, country-wide,‘many, many
thanks’for the time that you have sacrificed during the adjudication process.Your
contribution is much appreciated.
Anton Loubser
National President, SANAVA
Absa L ’Atelier Competition : 2008
7. 5
Gerard Sekoto Award
Gerard Sekoto (1913 – 1993)
Sekoto was born at Botshabelo near Middelburg in the former
Transvaal on 9 December 1913. His early paintings depicted scenes
from Sophiatown, District Six and Eastwood near Pretoria.
He left South Africa in 1947 for Europe and settled in Paris in volun-
tary exile where he lived until his death in 1993. As an African Parisian
he always yearned for his South African roots and identity, which he
depicted with much nostalgia in many of his works.
In Paris and with the support of the French loving public, doors even-
tually opened for Sekoto to explore his own creativity.With this award
we honour Gerard Sekoto.The French Embassy, the French Institute
and the Alliance Française, felt it appropriate to create such an award
to support the most promising artist with an income of less than
R60 000 per annum.This award will hopefully open yet another door
for a young South African artist in the city of love and art,namely Paris.
14. Top ten finalists
1 Suzanne Duncan
3 Retha Ferguson
2 Stephan Erasmus
4 Christiaan Hattingh
15. 13
5 Lunga Kama
8 Antonia Steyn
6 Alhyrian Laue
9 James Webb
7 Stephen Rosin
10 Sicelo Ziqubu
16. 14
Profile:
Armstrong was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at Rhodes University,Grahamstown.
Description of artwork:
The Rabbit-women were made without
a predetermined theme or concept and
came from the artist’s subconscious dream
state.The human-animal hybrid seems
to embody the mixed symbolism and
incongruities that occur in dream states.
The overtly feminine rabbits have a
strong resonance of fragility and vulner-
ability.This is evident in the heavily preg-
nant stomachs and the precariousness
of the rabbits’relationship to the ground.
Pregnancy could be a dual metaphor
for the anticipation of subconscious
thoughts that seem to grow and emerge
in one’s dreams and of the cavities in
which one hides and hibernates.
Armstrong, Beth Diane
East London
Rabbit-women
Mixed media
(Triptych)
a) 125cm x 40cm x 40cm
b) 125cm x 40cm x 40cm
c) 125cm x 40cm x 40cm
17. 15
Armstrong, Beth Diane
East London
Bird-men
Mixed media
(Triptych)
a) 43cm x 13,5cm x 15cm
b) 43cm x 13,5cm x 15cm
c) 43cm x 13,5cm x 15cm
Description of artwork:
The Bird-men were created from a subcon-
scious dream state. The overtly masculine
birds seem to speak of vulnerability that,
although they appear proud and powerful,
they actually are quite impotent in their
inability to fly – as their arms merge into
amorphous,flightless wings.
19. 17
Profile:
Arthur was born in 1985. She studied
BA(FA) at Rhodes University,Grahamstown
and is currently reading for an MA(FA) at
Rhodes University,Grahamstown.
Description of artworks:
The two larger-than-life portraits of
the artist’s parents were painted in an
exercise of dedication to examine and
explore the geography of two faces she
knows so well. Yet at the same time she
has difficulty penetrating the psyche of
the individuals (hence the closed eyes),
because it is only now, as she is becom-
ing an adult, that she realises that her
mother and father are not just parents
but unique individuals. Painting their
faces in this manner was part of a pro-
cess to understand them, herself and
their relationship.
East London
Untitled (Mother)
Oil on canvas
200cm x 148cm
Arthur, Kate
20. 18
Profile:
Bissett was born in 1982.
Bissett, Diederik Johannes Müller
Pretoria
Oranje, blanje, blou
Graphic print
93cm x 150cm
Description of artwork:
The graphic print resembles a flag due
to its format, which derived from a
still frame animation.The animation
consisted of three separate panels, which
functioned independently as well as
inter-dependently.The print does not
contain all the images but only sections
thereof. Although the title points to po-
litical undertones, it can be experienced
as a fun piece.
21. 19
Profile:
Botha was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of the Free State,
Bloemfontein. She is currently reading for
an MA(FA) at the University of the Free
State, Bloemfontein.
Description of artwork:
The painting portrays two enlarged feet
with ballet shoes. Conceptually the art-
work comprises of the dialectic relation-
ship between anti-theatricality in a space
of theatrical performance.
Botha, Anna Magrietha (Magriet)
Bloemfontein
Voetnota
Oil on canvas
170cm x 170,5cm
22. 20
Profile:
Chiazzari was born in 1985 and studied for
the National Diploma in Studio Arts at the
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University,
Port Elizabeth. She also obtained the BTech
degree in Stained Glass cum laude at the
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University,
Port Elizabeth.
Description of artwork:
This body of work is based on an explora-
tion into the theme of woman and vanity.
As a medium, glass has an essential link to
this association.Women, when looking in
a mirror, can be said to gaze at themselves
in a way that can be described as“looking
to be looked at”, which allows them to con-
struct a sense of self and femininity from
a voyeuristic perspective.The four stained
glass windows are symbolic of the daily
battle between reflection and reality.These
windows are mounted in baroque style
mirror frames, suggestive of classical ideals
and ornament.These frames have areas
of translucency that suggest skin and the
relationship between interior and exterior,
body and beauty.
The significance of the work is to illustrate
that women are routinely encouraged from
an early age to take care of and main-
tain the beautiful exterior that is vital to
society’s concept of femininity.Women are
encouraged to accept this attitude towards
their gender and are further expected to
behave and dress in a way that caters for
this system.
Chiazzari, Anva May
Port Elizabeth
Series 1: Put a tiger in your tank , An inch of glamour, Lash me and Stay laced
Mixed media
(Four-part)
74cm x 50cm each
23. 21
Claassens, Katrine Brink
Profile:
Claassens was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Stellenbosch.
Description of artwork:
The work comprises an installation of six
oil paintings with each painting depict-
ing sparklers in the night.The paintings
are executed on board and framed on the
back in order not to overwhelm or distract
anything from the fleeting quality of the
small works.The source material for the
paintings were found on the Internet and
translated into oil paint, a more formal
manner of representation.
Bellville
Last chance lost (Sparklers, 1997)
Mixed media
(Six-part)
a) 19,5cm x 32cm
b) 22,5cm x 17,5cm
c) 22,3cm x 27,5cm
d) 20cm x 23cm
e) 27,5cm x 30,5cm
f) 17cm x 21,5cm
24. 22
Profile:
Conradie was born in 1973 and studied
BA(FA) at Unisa, which he obtained cum
laude. He also obtained an MA(VA) at the
University of Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
These artworks consist of two close-up
digital prints of decaying leather,printed
back onto leather.The images were taken in
Paul Kruger’s office in Pretoria of his chair,
now eerily silent and strangely empty.The
ambiguity of passage ways and transitional
spaces are used to construct an aesthetic
of anticipation.The immaterial,allusive
details of the images offer only a frame-
work of association,signifying states of
change,loss and absence.
Conradie, Johannes Hendrik (Johan)
Pretoria
Council chamber I & II
Digital print on leather
(Diptych)
a) 60cm x 87cm
b) 60cm x 87cm
25. 23
Profile:
Danca was born in 1978 and studied
Graphic Design at the Durban Insti-
tute of Technology. He has participat-
ed in several exhibitions.
Description of artwork:
The artwork portrays grannies who
are always there to do the shopping
and the artist hopes that it will
never change.
Danca,Welcome S’phiwe
Durban
Shopping
Acrylic on board
50,5cm x 66cm
26. 24
Description of artwork:
In the townships young children visit
the taverns because this is where they
experience fun and at the end of the
day they end up falling in love with a
sugar mama.
Danca,Welcome S’phiwe
Durban
Tavern
Acrylic on board
50,5cm x 66cm
27. 25
De Beer, Carolina Davidina (Davina)
Profile:
De Beer was born in 1982. She studied
BA(FA) as well as MA(FA) at the University
of the Free State, Bloemfontein.
Description of artwork:
De Beer focused her research on the
raptures that occur in the continuity of
family memories. Distorsie (Distortion)
addresses aspects of memory preser-
vation that deals with estrangement,
anonymity, absence and mortality.The
interplay between exposure and conceal-
ment is used to examine the discontinu-
ities in history and memory in the private
and public spheres.‘Distorsie’invokes
family history simultaneously as specific
and universal and explores different
variations of the past.
Bloemfontein
Distorsie
Mixed media
82cm x 122cm x 86,3cm
28. 26
De Jager, Ronél
Johannesburg
Husse met lang ore
Mixed media
(Eight-part)
88cm x 21cm each
Profile:
De Jager was born in Johannesburg in 1985.
Description of artwork:
The title of the work refers to an old Afri-
kaans expression to identify children who
are very curios and nosy about something.
29. 27
Profile:
Duncan was born in 1981 and studied
BA(FA) at the Michaelis School of Fine Art,
University of Cape Town.
Description of artwork:
The handkerchief and the roll of gauze
both refer to the vulnerability of the body.
Gauze is used in the attempt to protect
a wound while the handkerchief is used
to hide and clean up the bodily fluids
that may otherwise expose that which
is unsanitary.Without these protective
implements we would be in closer
proximity to the animal.
Duncan, Suzanne Elizabeth Beavan
Bellville
Gauze and handkerchief
Human hair
(Diptych)
a) 73cm X 60cm
b) 73cm X 60cm
30. 28
Erasmus, Marthinus Stephanus (Stephan)
Johannesburg
The boat
Mixed media
200cm x 200cm x 200cm
Profile:
Erasmus was born in 1976. He studied
for the National Diploma in Fine Arts at
the Technikon of the Witwatersrand as
well as for the BTech (FA) degree at the
Technikon of the Witwatersrand. He also
completed a Master’s degree in Fine Arts
at the University of the Witwatersrand.
He has participated in several exhibitions,
including the Absa Atelier Exhibition
in 2000 as well as the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibitions in 2004 and 2006.
Description of artwork:
The boat is constructed from
approximately 65 460 matchsticks on
which the words‘I love her’were written
on all four sides.
This work focuses on two main ideas,
the metaphor of the boat as the love
between two people, sailing a river of
life and the obsessive nature with which
writing and construction has been
carried out.
The metaphor of the‘love boat’
traversing an ocean can be found in
various examples in contemporary
love songs.Through this work this
metaphor is made physical.Where the
fragile matchsticks construction mirrors
the fragility of the love between two
people and the match’s potential of fire
becomes passion.The river carrying the
boat becomes life, through which the
relationship has to navigate calm water
as well as raging torrents while keeping
together those it carries. Here the water as
a base element stands in direct opposition
to the element of fire,as once was said
‘there is love and its enemy is life’.
31. 29
Profile:
Essop was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at the Michaelis School of Fine Art,
University of Cape Town.
Description of artwork:
Kavali is the traditional name for this
genre of music, predominantly Indian.
The image presents the artist’s tradition
and heritage that has been passed down
by generations.Taken in Bo-Kaap (The
noon gun), the environment creates the
atmosphere for a spiritual calling.The
music is played to strengthen one’s faith.
Essop, Hasan
Bellville
Kavali
Photographic print
88cm x 129cm
32. 30
Profile:
Essop was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at the Michaelis School of Fine Art,
University of Cape Town.
Description of artwork:
The title of the work describes the group
to which the uniform belongs.The image
comments on the‘Coon’culture that
exists strictly in Cape Town. It originated
from the slaves who arrived in Cape
Town with the Dutch occuption, of whom
many were Muslim or converted to
Islam. Not being allowed to practise their
religion, they found ways to pray through
song, and when questioned about it their
response was that they were having a
party. It has thus evolved over time and is
still practised today, changed to suit the
vibrant atmosphere of Cape Town.
Essop, Husain
Bellville
Pennsylvanians
Digital photographic print
88cm x 129cm
33. 31
Profile:
Etsebeth was born in 1986 and is
currently studying Fine Arts at the
University of Johannesburg.
Description of artwork:
The work depicts abused children in
South Africa and represents a child’s view
of his/her abused life.
Etsebeth, Chanel
Johannesburg
My birthday wish
Silkscreen
44cm x 73,5cm
34. 32
Profile:
Ferguson was born in 1984 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Pretoria. She has
participated in several exhibitions, including
the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
The work attempts to dissolve prevalent
tendencies in contemporary art discourse,
which force artworks to conform to academi-
cally rigid readings. By refusing to supply the
viewer with any absolute meaning, the work
supports a more organic, fluid approach in art
discourse. It highlights the intangible aspects
of art and compels the viewer to confront
the work on a subconscious level rather
than taking a theoretically loaded approach.
Consequently the work invites the viewer
to develop a totally subjective and personal
interpretation, insisting that there is no ab-
solute meaning to art as there is no absolute
meaning to the world itself.
Ferguson, Sophia Margaretha (Retha)
Pretoria
Dissolved course
Photographic print
84cm x 116,5cm
35. 33
Profile:
Fourie was born in 1984 and studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at
the Tshwane University of Technology,
Pretoria. He is currently studying for
the BTech(FA) degree at the Tshwane
University of Technology, Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
The video captured a request sent from
a cellphone to the I-find Information
Directory service. The request is to find
God. The primary concept behind the
work is that in the daily information age
in which we live, it is possible that one
can experience divinity via something
that is so second-hand and has been
the by-product of mercantile-orientated
business.We would rather surround
ourselves with our own creations than
what has existed for millennia.
Fourie, Louis Francois
Pretoria
Expostulation
Digital video
1min 49sec
36. 34
Profile:
Fuller was born in 1974 and studied
BA(FA). He has participated in the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
If is a portrait of the artist and his
brother standing side by side. It was
taken with a camera built by the artist
himself. The camera has hundreds
of lenses, which work together as a
unit. Although each is unique in the
way in which it lets the light into the
camera, they share a common thread.
This thread is a moment or a view that
they witness together. In this case it is
the event of the artist and his brother
standing together. Next to the artist’s
ghostlike image he appears as a faint
trace, almost impossible to discern. If
things had been different they may
never have had the chance to share this
moment as the artist only learnt that he
had a brother when he was 25 years old.
The myriad different images of them
standing together is a suggestion of all
the ‘ifs’ that surround their relationship.
For each it is the first step on a path to a
tangled mess of speculation.
Fuller, St John James Zair
Johannesburg
If
Pinhole photography
155cm x 106cm
37. 35
Description of artwork:
Been there is a photograph of the
Natural History Museum in Pretoria.
It has been taken with a camera built
by the artist himself. The camera has
hundreds of lenses, which work together
as a unit. Although each is unique in the
way in which it lets the light into the
camera, they share a common thread.
This thread is a moment or a view that
they witness together.
In this case it is the museum and the
skeleton that hangs outside the museum.
The photograph can be seen as a busload
of tourists who are disembarking. Each
has a moment to look around, to take in
the view. For some the ability to see and
recollect clearly at a later stage is strong.
The memory is definite but for others
this is not the case.
Fuller, St John James Zair
Johannesburg
Been there
Pinhole photography
155cm x 106cm
38. 36
Profile:
George was born in 1974. She studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at the
Technikon Free State, Bloemfontein. She
also studied for the BTech (FA) degree at
the Technikon Free State, Bloemfontein.
She has participated in several exhibi-
tions, including the Volkskas Bank Atelier
exhibitions in 1996, 1997 and 1998. She
also participated in the Absa Atelier
Exhibition in 1999 and the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2002.
Description of artwork:
This work incorporates discarded and
banal found objects, loaded with intima-
tions of decay and degeneration. Redun-
dant items, each at a different stage of
decay, become the protagonist of death.
Mites, dust and dirt also play an integral
role in the process of death. In these
works the hypothesis of the formerly
valuable items comes into play, another
metaphor for the status of death.
George, Peneria Venessa Ansley (Penny)
Bloemfontein
Mite in butterfly wing,
Dust mite in digestive system of a snail and
Leaf mite Protozoa Tetrahymena Pyriformis
Mixed media
(Triptych)
a) 70cm x 70cm
b) 59,5cm x 59,5cm
c) 60cm x 60cm
39. 37
Profile:
Grobler was born in 1974. She studied
BA(FA) as well as MA(FA), which she
obtained with distinction from the
University of Stellenbosch. She has
participated in several exhibitions,
including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibitions in 2005 and 2006.
Description of artwork:
This work is based on a sketchbook
of observational drawings (a type of
visual journal) made during a residency
in Solothurn,Switzerland.The selected
images are of people/animals/objects
in transit.
Grobler, Liza
Bellville
Travel drawings (Switzerland)
Mixed media
200cm x 200cm
40. 38
Profile:
Hattingh was born in 1974 and studied
B.Eng (Metal) at the University of
Pretoria. He obtained a certificate in
Professional Photography at the New
York Institute of Photography. He also
studied BA(C&A) at Unisa, which he
obtained with distinction.
Description of artwork:
Generate-mutate-translate expands the
concept of algorithmic interaction to a
macro scale: life-systems on earth are
also subject to dynamically programmed
algorithmic sets, which interact with
each other: an example is genetic code,
which in essence is a type of algorithmic
procedure combining strands of DNA to
produce a particular sequence of code
(that generates a particular organism).
Through the influence of the environ-
ment and natural/artificial selection the
best ‘algorithm’survives, enabling the
organism to adapt and recreate.
Generate-mutate-translate is a fantasy
based upon this concept: algorithmically
generated forms are mutated, hybridised
and presented as an interactive species
chart. The species chart can be navi-
gated and enlarged to show details of a
particular algorithmic form, allowing the
user to also switch between multiple
translations of the code. The generative
algorithms that form the underpinning
of this work are based upon Lindenmayer
systems.
Hattingh, Christiaan Johannes
Pretoria
Generate-mutate-translate
Interactive digital projection
Infinite time
41. 39
Description of artwork:
A high-end camera that analyses the
image before it and then selects the most
appropriate exposure setting is a typical
example of a pattern recognition algo-
rithm that employ‘fuzzy logic’. Pattern
recognition as a concept is considered as
one of the primary ingredients of machine
intelligence (Theodoridis 2003:1).The work
pattern recognition‘plays’with the notion
of compulsive pattern recognition – a
situation where the recognition algorithm
does not necessarily have functional value,
but instead exhibits characteristics akin to
a phobia – as in the film‘A beautiful mind’
(2001),where the main character exhibits
negative side effects as a result of his
extraordinary ability to recognise patterns.
Pattern recognition ponders whether
artificial intelligence could exhibit the
same compulsive behaviour.
Hattingh, Christiaan Johannes
Pretoria
Pattern recognition
Interactive digital projection
Infinite time
42. 40
Profile:
Human was born in 1981. She studied
BA(FA) at the University of the
Free State, Bloemfontein. She has
participated in several exhibitions,
including the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibitions
in 2003, 2004 and 2006.
Description of artwork:
The artwork consists of roses and
patterns layered on an orange/yellow
background with a springbok symbol and
emblems hidden in the background.
Human, Phyllis Marjorie (Neé Vermeulen)
Bloemfontein
Roses and antelopes
Mixed media
160,5cm x 160cm
43. 41
Profile:
Janse van Rensburg was born in 1985 and
studied for the National Diploma in Fine
Arts at the Tshwane University of Technol-
ogy,Pretoria. She also obtained a BTech(FA)
degree with distinction at the Tshwane
University of Technology, Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
The installation consists of wooden
parquet floor pieces, with cut-out figures
in the centre of every block. There is a
slight disruption in the pattern as one
block is left out and a bigger version
of the figure appears in the bottom
left corner. The medium used is a
combination of Rhodesian teak and
pink beachwood because of its soft
and feminine qualities.
Janse van Rensburg, Danélle
Pretoria
Fragments of her
Mixed wood
200cm x 200cm
44. 42
Profile:
Jansen van Vuuren was born in 1985 and
studied BA(FA) at the University of the
Witwatersrand. He is currently reading
for an MA(FA) at the University of the
Witwatersrand.
Description of artwork:
Jansen van Vuuren’s work deals with
contemporary portraiture, focusing on
the angst, fears, apathy, joy, general
concerns, pre-occupations and intimate
thoughts of his subjects towards con-
temporary living in South Africa. These
concerns are interrogated through
filmed interviews from which stills are
isolated and edited to be used as source
material for the paintings.
Conversation II was painted from a series
of edited digital photographs taken
during an interview with a woman
when questions were asked about what
angered her in South Africa.
Jansen van Vuuren, Nathan
Johannesburg
Conversation II
Oil on canvas
100cm x 100cm
45. 43
Profile:
Kama was born in 1982.
Description of artwork:
This colour photograph is a sensitive
image of mental illness and depression.
Kama, Lunga
Bellville
Portrait of schizophrenia
Photography
151,5cm x 104cm
46. 44
Profile:
Keith was born in 1972 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Pretoria. She
also studied MA(FA) at the University
of Stellenbosch. She has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Volkskas
Bank Atelier Exhibition in 1996, the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibitions in 2006 and 2007
where she was selected as one of the top
ten finalists.
Description of artwork:
Keith reworks the multifold, simulta-
neous and confusing inner and outer
realities experienced by young women
of today.The impact and relevance of her
paintings extend beyond the confines of
any particular group. For it is the rapidly
changing and fluid character of identi-
ties she is exploring. Selfhood appears
to draw upon interplay and fusion of
various influences, often rooted in agony
– stemming not only from the artist’s
personal experience, but perceived in the
lives of others.
Keith, Marlise
Bellville
Moer
Mixed media
100cm x 99,5cm
47. 45
Profile:
Keyser was born in 1985 and is currently
studying for the National Diploma in
Fine Arts at the Tshwane University of
Technology, Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
This artwork is a solid cement tower with
taps running through it. It is covered
with red and green patina.This work
is a personal comment on thirst in our
country and is a metaphor for a thirst for
the Word of God.
Keyser, David Johannes Petrus (Duif)
Pretoria
Die warm kraan
Cement and iron
192cm x 75cm x 62cm
48. 46
Profile:
Khoza was born in 1986 and is currently
studying Fine Arts at the University of
Johannesburg.
Description of artwork:
In this artwork entitled Aliens, Khoza
depicted Nigerian (yuruba) sculptures as
a metaphor for the foreigners that invade
our country. He focussed more on the
Nigerians because they are often
notorious and they stand out in a crowd
because of their height and the clothes
they wear. Many of them sell drugs in
Johannesburg and therefore he tries to
convey the way in which many South
African people perceive the Nigerian
people as criminals, and they are
threatened by them.
Khoza, Jito
Johannesburg
Aliens
Acrylic on canvas board
(Triptych)
a) 25cm x 25cm
b) 25cm x 25cm
c) 25cm x 25cm
49. 47
Profile:
Kocha was born in 1985 and studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at
the Tshwane University of Technology,
Pretoria. He is currently studying for
the BTech(FA) degree at the Tshwane
University of Technology, Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
This work addresses the need for read-
ing in South Africa. Instead of listening
to instructions the South African soci-
ety should read. The small print is not
there to fill the space. Read the terms
and conditions.
Kocha, Mohlomi Lehlohonolo
Pretoria
Open your eyes to hear
Chalk on canvas
(Five-part)
30,5cm x 40,5cm each
50. 48
Profile:
Kritzinger was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Pretoria. She
is currently reading for an MA(FA) at the
University of Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
In The abyss one is confronted with
the‘Tokkelossie’in abstract form, as a
monster creeping into one’s dreams.
The sculpture is stacked on bricks, in
order to keep the short creature at bay.
The‘Tokkelossie’is notorious for raping
people in their beds while they are sleep-
ing at night.The phenomenon strongly
relates to small children being molested
in their homes by family members. Hor-
rific situations like molestation usually
continue for years and become a living
nightmare for the victims.
Kritzinger, Louise
Johannesburg
The abyss
Mixed media
200cm x 93cm x 82cm
51. 49
Profile:
Kruger was born in 1972 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Stellenbosch.
She also obtained a MTech(FA) degree
with distinction from the Technikon of
the Witwatersrand. She has participated
in several exhibitions, including the Absa
Atelier Exhibition in 1999 and the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2006.
Kruger, Marieke
Bellville
Hannah I
Mixed media
34cm x 101cm
Description of artwork:
The artwork, which consists of a series
of five prints, pays tribute to the artist’s
grandmother who died in 1977. Kruger
was only four years old at the time of her
death, but she can still remember the
personal encounters she had with her
as a child. Much controversy surrounded
her death at the time, seeing that she
committed suicide.This artwork deals
with issues surrounding physical,
spiritual and emotional loss, her own
identity as well as memories of her
grandmother. She also explores issues
concerned with the separation that
comes with the death of a loved one.
52. 50
Laue, Alhyrian Albert Bishop
Port Elizabeth
An evening of social tightrope walking
Mixed media
180cm x 73cm x 60,5cm
Profile:
Laue was born in 1985 and studied
for the National Diploma in Fine Arts
at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan
University, Port Elizabeth. He is currently
studying for the BTech(FA) degree at
the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan
University, Port Elizabeth.
53. 51
Laue, Alhyrian Albert Bishop
Port Elizabeth
Culp shrinking
Mixed media
124cm x 91,5cm x 101cm
Description of artworks:
Laue explores the metaphorical interplay
between masculine and feminine,
and the space between these two
opposing‘bodies’.These sculptures
may be described as the space where
these‘bodies’, or binary qualities, lock
in perpetual attraction towards their
potential consummation.The space that
is also the sculpture may equally be seen
as a delay of the inevitable marriage, the
structural default to transform.
The cupboard which forms the sculp-
ture’s body can be read as a vessel of
alchemical process where opposites
interweave in search of fusion.
54. 52
Profile:
Le Roux was born in 1973 and studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at the
Technikon Pretoria. He has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Volkskas
Atelier Exhibitions in 1996 and 1997.
He also participated in the Absa Atelier
Exhibition in 2000.
Description of artwork:
With this work, entitled Stoel met stuk
hout en ysterklip is an anthropomorphic
diptych of lab chairs that may be seen as
a family of some sort, like a husband and
wife proudly standing next to each other.
The first chair is portrayed with an erect
piece of wood, which is partly damaged
on the one corner, and the second chair
has a stone on it, it could remind us of the
phrase,“When you strike a woman you
strike a stone”.The work is very quiet
and formally clean with astonishing
attention to detail.The entire piece is
made of manipulated steel.
Le Roux, Renier
Pretoria
Stoel met stuk hout en ysterklip
Steel
(Diptych)
a) 87,5cm x 48cm x 36,5cm
b) 80cm x 50cm x 36,5cm
55. 53
Profile:
Liversage was born in 1973 and studied for the National
Higher Diploma in Fine Arts at the Technikon of the
Orange Free State, Bloemfontein. She also studied
for the BTech(FA) degree at the Technikon Free
State, Bloemfontein. She has participated in several
exhibitions, including the Volkskas Bank Atelier
Exhibitions in 1995 and 1996. She also participated in
the Absa L‘Atelier Exhibition in 2005.
Description of artwork:
The subject matter concerns urban symbols.The
medium is silk ribbons, which is associated with the
awareness on social issues affecting primarily the
vulnerable sectors of society namely women and
children.These symbols are used as visual messages
of protest against the turbulence and crisis, which has
affected South Africa’s social structure and remains
one of the greatest challenges of our times.
The subject matter is a Protea, which is South
Africa’s national flower. This symbol is used as
a national road sign in South Africa to identify
a conservation area. Conserving indigenous
vegetation has become a priority in our country and
she linked this element with the silk ribbon worn
to generate awareness of three epidemics. The
red ribbon creates awareness of HIV/Aids, whilst
the white ribbon symbolises unity against abuse
of women and children. The pink ribbon creates
awareness of breast cancer amongst women.
Liversage, Kilmany-Jo (Neé Hunt)
Bellville
National tribute I, II, III
Mixed media
(Triptych)
a) 69cm x 107cm
b) 69cm x 107cm
c) 69cm x 107cm
56. 54
Profile:
Lossgott was born in Germany in 1980
and studied BJourn at Rhodes Univer-
sity, Grahamstown. He also obtained
an Advanced Diploma in Visual Arts
from Unisa.
Description of artwork:
The video is a meditation on time,
language and the changing body. Unlike
plants, which blossom, bear fruit and
die, human life is linear.We are different
people at different times, as we grow and
adapt we invent personal myths to make
sense of the constant radical changes in
the fast-paced world around us. Perhaps
we are not evolved enough to live at
this speed. In this video, images of the
artist between the ages of fifteen and
twenty-eight built into sequences, which
interrupt themselves, run backwards at
times and blend into each other along
the symmetrical growth cleft, which
unites all mutations of sentient life.
Plant, human or animal, our biological
processes bear certain similarities, and
these processes are the only things we
can be certain of.
Lossgott, Kai
Bellville
Cull’tivate
Video
3min 9sec
57. 55
Lückhoff, Albert Bailie
Bellville
World-wide warming (global warming)
Acrylic on canvas
70cm x 100cm
Profile:
Lückhoff was born in 1972. He attended
art classes at the Community Art
Centre. He has participated in several
exhibitions, including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2005.
Description of artwork:
In this work Lückhoff addresses the issue
of global warming.
58. 56
Lückhoff, Albert Bailie
Bellville
Biosphere (Nature reserve – United Nations)
Oil on board
58cm x 176,5cm
Description of artwork:
Biosphere depicts aspects of nature as
seen in this landscape painting.
59. 57
Profile:
Machaba/Baloyi was born in 1974 and
was taught art while he was serving
18 years in prison.
Description of artwork:
Machaba/Baloyi depicts the daily
rituals of women in a community
where they are often taken for
granted. Women provide stability
in society and through this stability
they prevent crime.
Machaba/Baloyi, Samuel Pheagana
Polokwane
Life goes on
Acrylic on canvas
55cm x 63,5cm
60. 58
Profile:
Mailula was born in 1981 and studied for
the N6 National Certificate in Art and De-
sign at the Northern Province Community
College.
Description of artwork:
Mailula portrays a women’s cultural
group dancing in a place called Motumo
in Matoks (Botlokwa).
Mailula, Sepolwana Jonas
Polokwane
Cultural dance
Acrylic on board
57cm x 76,5cm
61. 59
Profile:
Makgahlela was born in 1981.
Description of artwork:
The jeer jeopardises and kindles discord.
Gossip and lies are unacceptable.
Makgahlela, Seema
Polokwane
Lying women
Wood
83cm x 35,5cm x 32,5cm
62. 60
No pic supplied
NNNNoooo ppppiiicccc ssssuuuupppppppplllliiiieeeeeeeeeeddddddddd
Makoba, Ramarutha
Johannesburg
Recognise the child
Marley tile etching
70cm x 90cm
Profile:
Makoba was born in 1984 and studied art
at Fuba as well as at the Artist Proof Studio.
Description of artwork:
Makoba expresses the fact that
we need to recognise and support
our children who need guidance to
influence their future.
63. 61
Profile:
Marx was born in 1977 and studied for
the BTech(FA) degree at the Technikon
Pretoria. She is currently reading for an
MA(FA) at the University of the Witwa-
tersrand. She has participated in several
exhibitions, including the Absa Atelier
Exhibitions in 1999 and 2000.
Description of artwork:
Marx worked with frozen bodies of
water as surface for inscription. As a
landscape intervention, the work involved
the moving of stones in a wheelbarrow
over a substantial distance, from the
river Rhône to a leak in the heart of Bois
de Finges in Sierre, Switzerland and the
subsequent placing, writing with stone
onto the precariously frozen surface of
the water.The artwork employs palimpsest
and erasure as device: in writing with
stones on ice, I created a Freudian‘mystic
writing pad’or‘perceptual apparatus’.
The impact of the work is accentuated
by one’s ability to envision the text being
swallowed by the water as the ice melts.
Marx, Maja (Neé Pfeiffer)
Johannesburg
I am the world on which I walk
Digital photograph
(Triptych)
a) 69cm x 92,5cm
b) 69cm x 92,5cm
c) 69cm x 92,5cm
64. 62
Description of artwork:
Pedestrian poetry, points to an urban
account of landscape inscription: in ap-
plying a textual intervention on systems
of both access and division as is found
in the case of busy roads and pedestrian
crossings in central Johannesburg. As a
term, pedestrian poetry is indicative of
the manner in which pedestrians walk
the city as a text, with‘walking’pointing
to the narrative unfolding the text. In this
sense, the specific locations chosen for
the project are crucial; as one of the busi-
est inner-city throughfares.Twist Street
represents a dynamic combination of dif-
ferent modes of movement, an exchange
of different nationalities and a general
space of cultural negotiation.
Marx, Maja (Neé Pfeiffer)
Johannesburg
Pedestrian poetry: In & Out
Digital photographic print
68,5cm x 92,5cm
65. 63
Profile:
Maswanganyi was born in the village of
Noblehook, Giyani, in 1977. He obtained
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at the
Technikon of the Witwatersrand. His
father, the well-known sculptor, Johannes
Maswanganyi, taught him woodcarving.
He has participated in several exhibitions
nationally and internationally, and
received several awards. He was selected
as one of the top ten finalists of the Absa
Atelier Exhibition in 2001.
Description of artwork:
Three wooden figures are carved out and
placed on a wooden base depicting these
figures as thinkers who are respected
by their communities.Wherever they go
they are treated as celebrities.
Maswanganyi, Collen
Johannesburg
Thinking tanks
Wood and paint
40cm x 22cm x 30cm
66. 64
Profile:
Matthews was born in 1982 and studied
for the National Diploma in Fine Arts
at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan
University, Port Elizabeth. He obtained
the BTech(FA) degree cum laude from the
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University,
Port Elizabeth. He has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibitions in 2006 and 2007,
where he received a Merit Award.
Description of artwork:
A wetter nurse seeks to criticize the
very thought processes that direct us
toward, and no further than, these
narrow conceptions.The work seeks to
extend the critical faculties through a
deliberate confrontation of the accepted
and familiar with itself and by offering a
certain amount of elucidation and then
retracting and/or contradicting that
rationalisation with another, equally
valid, proposition.This condenses
meaning in seemingly simple objects and
relations, so as to implicate vast cultural
and symbolic understanding, a process
whereby the revealed obscures meaning,
and the concealed presents opportunity
for revelation.The soap is at once a
reductive material, cleansing, purifying,
and an effective remover of‘excessive’
fat, and conversely, it fills the desk,
congesting it with a material fatty in
itself, one which until recently consisted
primarily of animal fats, a material
regarded with some repulsion.
Matthews,Wayne
Port Elizabeth
A wetter nurse! Whilst the sin still shines
Mixed media
75,5cm x 42cm x 49cm
67. 65
Profile:
McEvoy was born in 1980. He obtained
the BTech(FA) degree from the Tshwane
University of Technology cum laude. He
also obtained his MTech(FA) degree from
the Tshwane University of Technology. He
is currently a teacher at the Pretoria Boys’
High School. He has participated in several
exhibitions,including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2006.
Description of artwork:
Intent exists in a realm of opposites: male
versus female, hard versus soft, integra-
tion, border and line versus lack thereof,
bright versus pale, sharp versus blunt,
pattern and decoration versus dissolution
and disorder.The intent of the artist is to
make comment on postcolonial issues
surrounding especially land and the
infrastructure of land, but perhaps too, on
many more subtle aspects of the postco-
lonial condition.The tools can be seen to
represent the actual‘tools’used as part
of the demarcation process of colonial-
ism, the dividing of land into bordered
areas.These tools have been added to
or softened in an act of defacement, but
also to beautify and decorate, especially
with pattern, to take their power as‘tools’
away and give a less harmful appearance.
McEvoy, Kai
Pretoria
Intent (Or how to execute an invasion)
Mixed media
(Eight-part)
44cm x 34cm each
68. 66
Profile:
McLachlan was born in 1974 and ob-
tained a BA degree from the University
of Natal, majoring in Art and Drama. He
has participated in several exhibitions,
including the Absa Atelier Exhibition in
2001, the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibitions in
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.
He also received an Absa L ’Atelier Merit
Award in 2002.
Description of artwork:
This work consists of two DVD players,
which play side by side synchronised in
rotation. Metaphorically, the work plays
with ideas reminiscent of our current
load shedding crisis – in fact reflects
many South Africans’vacillation between
hope and despair … is it on or is it off?
McLachlan, Alastair James
Johannesburg
The on and off side of life
DVD
5min
69. 67
Description of artwork:
Target practice implies, in our current
broader, more violent South African con-
text, that all does not bode well.We never
stop learning how to behave, mainly
because society – and our relationship
to others – is always changing and we
continually face learning how to behave
in new and different situations.
McLachlan, Alastair James
Johannesburg
Target practice
Photographic print
98cm x 122cm
70. 68
Profile:
McNeill was born in 1974 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of the Free State,
Bloemfontein.
Description of artwork:
In our quest for learning we often dis-
cover that we possess the key ourselves
to unlock the mysteries of life.We stand
steadfast in our mission in search of
truth. All we need to do is to remain
open-minded.
McNeill, Dawid André Donald (Dawie)
Bloemfontein
Ons staan soos ’n rots
Cement
11cm x 41cm x 57cm
71. 69
Profile:
Mdluli was born in 1983 and studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at the
Technikon of the Witwatersrand. She
also studied for the BTech(FA) degree at
the University of Johannesburg. She has
participated in several exhibitions, includ-
ing the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibitions in 2005,
2006 and 2007. She also received several
awards.
Mdluli, Same Sizakele
Johannesburg
Bushman woman
Mixed media
(Five-part)
a) 33,5cm x 25,5cm
b) 34,5cm x 26cm
c) 34,5cm x 26cm
d) 34,5cm x 26cm
c) 34,5cm x 26cm
Description of artwork:
The Bushman woman was a retirement
gift given to the artist’s grandmother. It
was then handed over to Mdluli’s mother
after her grandmother passed on. Mdluli
made a cast of it and made reproductions
with different labels and colours.
As a whole the work refers to the dangers
and contradictions of labelling especially
women. It humorously exposes society’s
prejudices and misconceptions about
those we all perceive as being different
or the‘other’.
72. 70
Profile:
Meyerov was born in 1977. She studied
BA(FA) as well as MA(FA) at the University
of the Witwatersrand. She is currently
a part-time lecturer at the University of
Johannesburg. She has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Absa
L ’Atelier in 2005.
Description of artwork:
Meyerov’s work explores the notion and
transformation, through a cumulative
labour intensive process, whereby the
material itself physically undergoes a
metamorphosis from a utilitarian object
into an ambiguous substance suggestive
of an organic, live structure.
Colony comprises of thousands of used
teabags, collected over a period of a year
from various sources.These have been
emptied, stained and restructured into
ambiguous, hybrid like forms suggestive
of tiny living organisms, which seem to
hover indeterminately in a transitional,
borderline state – either in process of
birth and renewal or alternatively on the
verge of death and subsequent decay.
Meyerov, Lee-At
Johannesburg
Colony
Teabags and Perspex
97,5cm x 75cm
73. 71
Moys, Anthea Julian Dineo
Johannesburg
Gautrain series: Burial, Digging and Standing with graders
Digital inkjet prints
(Triptych)
a) 65cm x 83,5cm
b) 65cm x 83,5cm
c) 65cm x 83,5cm
Profile:
Moys was born in 1980 and studied BA(FA)
at the University of theWitwatersrand.
She also studied MA(FA) at the University
of theWitwatersrand.
74. 72
Description of artworks:
Gautrain: Ophelia and Gautrain series:
Burial, Digging and Standing with
graders obliquely refer to John Everett
Millais’ Ophelia (1851 -2). Moys sees the
Gautrain construction sites as sites
of potential and of the future. They
are always becoming, neither here
nor there but in a state of transition.
The somewhat futile act of digging
whilst there are huge powerful graders
surrounding her, demonstrates a
feeling of helplessness or uselessness,
which she thinks many South Africans
are feeling currently. There is also an
element of fear and risk in these sites.
Moys, Anthea Julian Dineo
Johannesburg
Gautrain: Ophelia
Video
1min 32sec
75. 73
Profile:
Murdoch-Trapani was born in 1972 and
studied for the National Higher Diploma
in Fine Arts at the Technikon of the
Witwatersrand. She is currently reading
for an MA(FA) at the University of the
Witwatersrand. She has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibitions in 2002, 2004,2005
and 2006.
Murdoch-Trapani, Antoinette
Johannesburg
Body Botanics
Mixed media
(Eight-part)
60,5cm x 45cm each
Description of artwork:
The polyurethane foam puzzle pieces
are arranged into pop-like botanical
images. The puzzle pieces depict
human body parts.
76. 74
Norman, Natasha Felicity
Bellville
Dope show:TV stills Freedom Day, 2007
Mixed media
(Twelve-part)
44cm x 59cm each
Profile:
Norman was born in 1982 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Cape Town.
She has participated in several exhibi-
tions, including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2006.
Description of artwork:
In Dope show, Norman captures the mo-
ments immediately preceding or follow-
ing violence, refusing its direct represen-
tation in favour of its anticipation and
aftershocks. A series of television stills
from shows broadcast on Freedom Day,
Norman alludes to a heritage – as well as
a present – wrought by violence, violence
often covered over in media spectacle
and the contemporary celebration
of nationhood (an idea echoed in
Washkansky’s nationalistic symbolism).
77. 75
Description of artwork:
Norman’s most overt piece, Teach your
children, is a sound installation of toy
guns affixed to a Perspex target, in which
the viewer, triggering the sensor system,
becomes the unwitting victim of violence
– figured as child’s play through the
sounds of children’s imitative shooting
(‘Bang’;‘Boom’), which culminates in
the sound of an actual gunshot and the
ejection of an empty shell, followed by an
eerie silence.
Norman, Natasha Felicity
Bellville
Teach your children
Mixed media
188cm x 75,5cm x 95cm
78. 76
Profile:
Norval was born in 1980 and studied
for the National Diploma in Fine Arts at
the Durban Institute of Technology. She
also obtained a BTech(FA) degree from
the Durban Institute of Technology. She
has participated in several exhibitions,
including the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibitions
in 2005 and 2006, where she received a
Merit Award.
Description of artwork:
The series tells the story of Norval’s mother.
The piece traces emotions of her relation-
ship with her mother as well as different
phases of her mother’s life. It also bears
witness of a mother’s love for a child and
vice versa.
Norval, Anet
Durban
When mother comes to visit
Mixed media
a) 15cm x 15cm
b) 15cm x 15cm
c) 15cm x 15cm
d) 14,5cm x 20,5cm
e) 15cm x 15cm
f) 15cm x 15cm
g) 15cm x 15cm
h) 15cm x 15cm
i) 15cm x 15cm
j) 15cm x 15cm
79. 77
Pokroy, Anthea Tracy
Profile:
Pokroy was born in 1986 and studied BA(FA)
at the University of theWitwatersrand.
She has participated in several exhibi-
tions, including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
In this series of three photographs,
the artist explores the ways in which
a violent act can affect the memory of
a space. Using the method of double
exposure, it becomes apparent how these
fleeting moments of violence leave ghost
imprints onto otherwise empty spaces.
Johannesburg
Untitled
Photography
(Triptych)
a) 59cm x 59cm
b) 59cm x 59cm
c) 59cm x 59cm
80. 78
Pokroy, Anthea Tracy
Johannesburg
Beastly tales photo series
Photography
(Triptych)
a) 43cm x 59,5cm
b) 41,5cm x 59cm
c) 42,5cm x 60cm
Description of artwork:
This work arose from the inspiration
of postmodern writer Angela Carter’s
‘The Bloody Chamber’. This collection
of short stories is involved with the
reworking and subverting popular,
universal fairytales. Carter’s attempt at
rediscovering the latent meaning and
intention of these original tales, written
by Charles Perrault and, subsequently,
the Brothers Grimm, was influential in
the production of Pokroy’s work. This
series of three photographs depict the
stories of Snow White, Sleeping Beauty
and Red Riding Hood. The captions
included are intended as direct dialogue
between the stories told over centuries,
particularly between Perrault, Brothers
Grimm, Carter and the artist.
81. 79
Profile:
Pretorius was born in 1983 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of the Witwa-
tersrand. She is currently reading for an
MA(FA) at the University of the Witwa-
tersrand. She has participated in several
exhibitions, including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2006.
Description of artwork:
Pretorius’work is concerned with the
abuse and exploitation of animals.
Pretorius, Elmarie
Johannesburg
Bird body landscape
Mixed media
111cm x 190cm
82. 80
Prins, Elizabeth (Liezel)
Durban
Service
Mixed media
66,5cm x 60cm
Profile:
Prins was born in 1981 and studied for the
BTech(FA) degree at the Durban Institute of
Technology.She has participated in several
exhibitions,including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibitions in 2005,2006 and 2007.
Description of artwork:
To serve has become absent within
human interaction. The artist attempts
to comment on subtle idiosyncrasies
within contemporary universal society.
83. 81
Prins, Elizabeth (Liezel)
Durban
Townhouse villagers
Mixed media
81cm x 41cm x 23cm
Description of artwork:
The artist comments on subtle idiosyn-
crasies within contemporary universal
society such as perfect lawns, perfect
gutter hue and perfect reception. A
veritable glut of processed manufactured
and synthesised everything – served in
McDonald’s style.
84. 82
Profile:
Quwe was born in 1981 and studied for
the BTech(FA) degree at the University of
Johannesburg.
Description of artwork:
These panels depict animal and children’s
activities within text interwoven between
these images.
Quwe, Nkosinathi
Johannesburg
Section of a wall I, II, III
Ink on paper
(Triptych)
a) 200cm x 53cm x 32cm
b) 200cm x 53cm x 32cm
c) 200cm x 53cm x 32cm
85. 83
Profile:
Rosin was born in 1975 and studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at
the Technikon, Port Elizabeth. He also
obtained his BTech(FA) degree cum
laude. He has participated in several
exhibitions, including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
This work is a simplified representation
of an existing system on a smaller scale
in order to assist future calculations and
predictions.The man in the middle is a re-
flection of the current state of the land of
the artist’s birthplace, namely Zimbabwe.
It speaks of dictatorship, where the man in
the middle undoubtedly benefits from his
position but by necessity he finds himself
forever surrounded by fear and violence.
Rosin, Stephen John
Bellville
War toy 2, 3 and the man in the middle
Mixed media
(Triptych)
a) 63cm x 32cm x 27cm
b) 40,5cm x 43cm x 34cm
c) 38cm x 74cm x 2cm
86. 848484848
Profile:
Saayman was born in 1984 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Stellenbosch.
Description of artwork:
This work concerns the demise of
Afrikaner male identity. After an
advertisement which was placed in “Die
Burger” on 16 February 2008, in which
he questioned Afrikaner male identity,
he received many calls. These calls
were recorded and the artist’s function
became that of voyeur where in privacy
and anonymity, the viewer can listen in
to these telephonic conversations.
Saayman,Wynand Philippus
Bellville
Plaaslynstories
Mixed media
69cm x 92cm x 42cm
87. 85
Profile:
Sales was born in 1973 and studied
BA(FA) (Printmaking) at the University
of Cape Town, which she obtained with
distinction. She also studied MA(FA)
at the University of Cape Town, which
she also obtained with distinction. She
has participated in several exhibitions,
including the Absa Atelier Exhibition
in 2001 and in the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibitions in 2003, 2004, 2006 and
2007. She was also selected as one of
the top ten finalists in the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2003 and 2006. She also
received a Merit Award in the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
Consisting of 159 intricately cut SAA
boarding passes, Shatter is an abstract
pattern, which is derived from an
image of cracks racing across a sheet
of tempered glass. It shows the instant
at the moment in which it is struck
by a blunt metal plunger. This piece
makes reference to the Helderberg
plane crash of 1987 in which 159 people
died, amongst which was her father.
This was a controversial and unresolved
incident brought up at the Truth and
Reconciliation Commission where the
blame was laid on the actions of the
previous apartheid government. Shatter
is also a contemplation on the parallels
within macrocosms. Resembling an
eye as well as a mandala, it represents
the cosmos, the big bang, a vortex or a
tunnel of light associated with a near
death experience.
Sales, Lynda Dorothy (Lyndi)
Bellville
Shatter
Mixed media
200cm x 200cm
88. 86
Profile:
Schnugh was born in 1981.
Description of artwork:
In this work Schnugh tried to capture a
moment in time in its purity, hence the
simplicity of the work. By cropping the
images in the way he has, it only gives
the viewer a small clue as to what is
happening in the work, hence creating
a slight tension of intrigue and curiosity.
It is this balance of simplicity and
seemingly endless possibilities that
he tries to achieve in his work.
Schnugh, Lorne Louw
Johannesburg
Untitled
Airbrush painting
(Diptych)
a) 83,5cm x 49,5cm
b) 83,5cm x 49,5cm
89. 87
Profile:
Smit was born in 1976 and studied for the
National Diploma in Photography at the
Technikon Free State, Bloemfontein.
Description of artwork:
Both these works are portraits of friends
of the artist. Each one of these portraits
depicts the emotion of sadness, which
the artist tried to capture.
Smit, Frans Johannes
Bellville
Head of a young man and a girl in a charcoal sweater
Oil on canvas
(Diptych)
a) 50,5cm x 41cm
b) 50,5cm x 41cm
90. 88
Profile:
Spies was born in 1976 and studied for
the National Diploma in Graphic Design
at the Technikon Vaal Triangle.
Description of artwork:
This work portrays the expectations we
have regarding relationships and mar-
riage. Relationships seem idyllic with
a sugar coating while the reality is not
always so sweet and idyllic.The round
plastic balls represent the soap-bubble,
which can easily burst.The work is fragile
and represents the delicacy and sensitiv-
ity of relationships.The cushions, which
are covered with icing, represent the
cushions you kneel on during the mar-
riage ceremony and enhances the idea of
the sugar-coated concept.
Spies, Gerda (Neé Coetzee)
Pretoria
Bitter-sweet transience
Mixed media
200cm x 200cm x 200cm
91. 89
Profile:
Steyn was born in 1978 and studied
BA(Hons) at the University of Cape
Town, which she obtained cum laude.
Description of artwork:
The image deconstructs the well-
known photograph of Eugene Terre’
Blanche taken during the 1980s where
he was depicted on his horse ready
to save the Afrikaner nation from the
black threat. Here Terre’Blanche is
depicted as vulnerable against the
power of his stallion, Atilla.
Steyn, Antonia Digna
Bellville
Untitled (Eugene Terre’Blanche)
Mixed media
79cm x 119cm
92. 90
Steyn, Daniël Petrus Dreyer
Pretoria
Face it
Video
5min
Profile:
Steyn was born in 1984 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
The slow morphing of the image in the
video Face it, depicts the long and tedi-
ous process of the re-centring of the self.
The image is being distorted at such a
slow pace that it appears to be static
with only slightly variating nuances. At
any point during the video the image
seems to be stagnant and that the
distortion is complete. The same could
be said about identities. At any point we
feel that our identity is complete; we
are in the moment who we are. Yet the
distortion is continual. At no point is the
image complete although it may appear
so. Our identities are ever-changing.We
are never the same person we were a
moment ago. The image appears to be
unmoving, yet after time elapsed, it is
unrecognisable. The to and fro morphing
of the self relays the instability of the
ever-changing identity of the self. Do
you still recognise yourself?
93. 91
Profile:
Steyn was born in 1980 and studied for a
Diploma in Fashion Design at the Haute
Couture School in Cape Town. She is
currently studying for the BTech degree
in Fashion/Surface Design at the Cape
Peninsula University of Technology.
Description of artwork:
This work depicts a mathematical
construction of a three-dimensional
sculpture namely a mask and a body
of breasts using symmetry, flat forms
and shapes glued together to become
a three-dimensional sculpture.
Steyn, Maria Petronella (Petro)
Bellville
Sog soog suig my leeg
Mixed media
117cm x 50cm x 23cm
94. 92
Profile:
Strydom was born in 1979 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of Pretoria. He
also studied MA(FA) at the University
of Stellenbosch. He has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2002.
Description of artwork:
Strydom’s interest lies in the complexity
theory and ideas of inside vs. outside.
Decay, decomposition, growth, rhythm
and life turning on itself, formed the
starting points for the marks he used.
The work is also very much about mark-
making, the process of drawing itself as
well as the place of labour in making
an art object.
Strydom, Colijn
Bellville
Breathing in autumn
Ink on paper
107cm x 140cm
95. 93
Profile:
Thavhana was born in 1978 and is a
sculptor taking after his father Paul. He
has a passion for his art and also enjoys
carpentry. He has been carving since
1994. He also participated in the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2001.
Description of artwork:
This small carved sculpture depicts the
HIV/Aids issue.This virus manages to
spread although it has no wings to fly,
fins to swim or feet to walk.
Thavhana, Eserael
Polokwane
HIV & Aids
Wood
40cm x 13cm x 10,5cm
96. 94
Tshivhandakano, Ndwamato
Thohoyandou
The son and the darkness
Photograph
43cm x 54,5cm
Profile:
Tshivhandakano was born in 1982 and
studied art at Matongoni.
Description of artwork:
This work depicts a child who grew up
without knowing his background.The light
symbolises the revelation of the truth.
97. 95
Profile:
Van Biljon was born in 1984 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of the Free State,
Bloemfontein.
Description of artwork:
This work portrays child abuse in
which children are portrayed as care
bears. The surroundings, in which care
bears find themselves, are very often
the places where children are. The
explicit naked figures indicate those
who abuse children.
Van Biljon, Elsie
Bloemfontein
Blommetjie
Computer print on vinyl
105cm x 139cm
98. 96
Profile:
Van der Merwe was born in 1986 and is
currently studying for the National Diploma
in Fine Arts at the Tshwane University of
Technology, Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
Van der Merwe’s work deals with the
idea that if you dream big and you work
towards your goal, it is possible to make
your dreams come true. Her grandfather’s
influence helped her to realise this. Her
grandfather, who was a farmer, had a
dream to breed horses and made it a reality
through perseverance and hard work. The
horse images she used in her paintings are
direct links to this dream and message of
hope and persistence.
Van der Merwe, Aroné
Pretoria
Grandpa’s career as trainer
Mixed media
(Thirteen-part)
17,5cm x 8,5cm each
99. 97
Durban
Zulu
Mixed media
89,5cm x 72cm
Profile:
Van Eeden was born in 1979 and studied for
the National Diploma in Graphic Design at
the Durban University ofTechnology.
Van Eeden,Wesley
Description of artworks:
The concept behind the artwork is to
promote a positive attitude amidst
the many apparent negative things
happening in South Africa.With the
experiences Van Eeden encountered with
crime as well as with friends, family and
work associates and many good things
he has experienced living here, especially
with his teaching of Graphic Design in
KwaMashu in KwaZulu-Natal, he felt that
he needed to convey a message of hope.
As an artist he has a desire to use his
talents to work on‘projects’ that evoke a
positive message.
102. 100
Profile:
Van Staden was born in 1986 and studied
for the National Diploma in Fine Arts at
the Tshwane University of Technology.
He is currently studying for the BTech(FA)
degree at the Tshwane University of
Technology, Pretoria.
Van Staden, Pieter Schalk
Pretoria
Inspection
Oil on board
40cm x 60cm
Description of artwork:
The marble tiles in the background depict
the notion of healing and pain by bridg-
ing a fine line of restraint between the
patient and the doctors. Here a critique
of authority is noted in relation to that of
institutions.Thus the confusion of heal-
ing and pain is noted.
103. 101
Profile:
Van Tonder was born in 1985 and studied
BA(FA) at the University of the Free State,
Bloemfontein.
Description of artwork:
The work refers to Andy Warhol’s
way of silkscreening the icon, Marilyn
Monroe. According to the artist Monroe
represents the origin of‘lost identity’. By
representing the object and icon Hello
Kitty in the same way, Kitty actually
becomes more alive and develops
an identity. In this day and age the
division between human and object
has disappeared. It is as if we glorify
‘lost identity’.
Van Tonder, Nadia
Bloemfontein
Marilyn’s muse
Silkscreen and oil on canvas
145cm x 198,5cm
104. 102
Profile:
Vivier was born in 1976 and studied
for a BSc Computer Science degree
at Unisa. He also studied for the
BTech(FA) degree at the Tshwane
University of Technolgy, Pretoria.
Description of artwork:
With an intention of throwing some
interesting shapes on the wheel, Vivier
returned to nine digitally manipulated
photographs taken of the 1963 film
entitled ‘The pink panther’. It was taken
off a television screen. Out of each, the
artist selected a small part. Since the
act of throwing results in shapes that
are symmetrical, Vivier mirrored these
selected parts in order to make them
‘throwable’. He found the result to be
surprising and very exciting, when
he imagined these two-dimensional
shapes in three-dimensional form.
Vivier, Peter-Wayne
Pretoria
Out of the Pink Panther # 4, 9, 5
Mixed media
(Triptych)
a) 26cm x 19,5cm x 19,5cm
b) 24cm x 19,5cm x 19,5cm
c) 13cm x 30cm x 21,5cm
105. 103
Profile:
Warman was born in 1985 and studied for
the National Diploma in Fine Arts at the
University of Johannesburg.
Description of artwork:
This piece is a representation of a cocoon,
a metaphor for the development of
identity.
Warman, Nicole Claire
Johannesburg
Metamorphosis part II
Mixed media
113cm x 93cm x 94cm
106. 104
Profile:
Webb was born in 1975 and studied BA
Drama and Religion at the University of
Cape Town. He also obtained a Diploma
in Advertising. He has participated in
several exhibitions, including the Absa
Atelier Exhibitions in 2000 and 2001 and
in the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibitions in 2002,
2004 and 2006. He also received an Absa
L ’Atelier Merit Award in 2002 and 2006.
Description of artwork:
This work consists of voice recordings
of the artist under hypnosis, broadcast
from speakers fitted into a black leather
chaise longue.
Webb, James Hamilton
Bellville
Auto hagiography
Mixed media
69,5cm x 182cm x 64cm
107. 105
Profile:
Wessels was born in 1982 and is currently
studying BA(VA) at Unisa.
Description of artwork:
This work is mostly a monochrome
painting depicting the profile of a
woman’s face and behind it a figure
resembling the form of a bull.
Wessels, Elise
Bellville
Amisade’s dream of king Nebuchadnezzar
Mixed media
41,5cm x 65cm
108. 106
Profile:
Western was born in 1981 and studied
BA(FA) as well as MA(FA) at the University
of theWitwatersrand.She has participated
in several exhibitions, including the Absa
L ’Atelier Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
Waiting is a narrative of urban
alienation as told from the perspective
of a particular high-rise inhabitant.
Western, Natalie Anne (Rat)
Johannesburg
Waiting
Video
5min
109. 107
Whitehead, Johanna Jacoba (Hanje)
Johannesburg
Bird
Mixed media
170cm x 200cm x 200cm
Profile:
Whitehead was born in 1985 and
studied BA(FA) at the University of
Pretoria. She has participated in several
exhibitions, including the Absa L ’Atelier
Exhibition in 2007.
Description of artwork:
The sculpture Bird is a compilation of
found objects, thus Duchampian Ready-
mades.These found objects are present
in its own identity and now taken from
its essence in this context, to be born
again as an individual object with its own
identity and new context.
These objects become something from
without itself, something that is far from
its origin and context given identity.
These found objects gain life from their
new purpose in being constructed and a
compiled object, now in its new context
as an artwork and for that its function
and identity are reformed.
110. 108
Wildenboer, Barbara
Bellville
Set adrift
Mixed media
200cm x 200cm x 200cm
Profile:
Wildenboer was born in 1973 and stud-
ied BA(Ed) at the University of Pretoria.
She also studied BA(VA) at Unisa and
MA(FA) at the Michaelis School of Fine
Art, University of Cape Town, which she
obtained with distinction. She has par-
ticipated in several exhibitions, including
the Absa L ’Atelier Exhibitions in 2003
and 2005.
Description of artwork:
The title of the work Set adrift is meant
to be contradictory, referring both to an
attempt to set or fix things as well as to
the inevitability of the disappearance
of the very things that one attempts to
secure. In this work the photographic
process is applied in an attempt to
capture that which is fleeting and forever
changing.The work consists of seven
circular photographic images of clouds,
each with a star constellation pinned onto
the surface of the image as well as a mass
of beach stones onto which images of
dead fish collected from the beach were
printed.The constellations used are those
named after birds, such as Aquila: the
eagle, Corvus: the crow, Cygnus: the swan
and Grus: the crane.Wildenboer used
images of clouds as she found them to
be an effective means of expressing the
sublime nature of inner experiences.
111. 109
Profile:
Ziqubu was born in 1974 and obtained a
Public Relations Diploma.
Description of artwork:
This chair depicts the origins of all
humankind.Whether black or white,
we all face trying situations because of
our first parents, Adam and Eve, who
disobeyed the Almighty Creator when
accepting a fruit offered by Satan.
Ziqubu, Sicelo Victor Sandile
Durban
The lost paradise of Adam and Eve
Mixed media
182cm x 140cm x 200cm
112. 110
Previous Absa L ’Atelier Winners
1986
Winner
Penny Siopis
Merit Award Winners
Deborah Bell
Andrew Breebaart
Dennis Purvis
Simon Stone
1987
Winner
Clive van den Berg
Merit Award Winners
Andries Botha
Philippa Hobbs
Tommy Motswai
Karel Nel
1988
Winner
Diane Victor
Merit Award Winners
Kay Cowley
Guy du Toit
Johann Louw
Margaret Vorster
1989
Winner
Hennie Stroebel
Merit Award Winners
Caroline Jones
Walter Oltmann
Giulio Tambellini
Jeremy Wafer
1990
Winner
Barend de Wet
Merit Award Winners
Andrew Breebaart
Jean Bruwer
Guy du Toit
Judy Woodborne
1991
Winner
Virginia MacKenny
Merit Award Winners
Nicole Donald
Ruth Mileham
Johann van der Schijff
Pierre van der Westhuizen
1992
Winner
Paul Edmunds
Merit Award Winners
Wayne Barker
Marc Edwards
Dominic Thorburn
Minette Vári
1993
Winner
Dominic Thorburn
Merit Award Winners
Siemon Allen
Diek Grobler
Adam Letch
Russel Scott
1994
Winner
Jonathan Comerford
Merit Award Winners
Andrew Putter
Kevin Roberts
Henk Serfontein
Alastair Whitton
1995
Winner
Kevin Roberts
Merit Award Winners
Moses Cetywayo
Gordon Froud
Diek Grobler
Peet Pienaar
1996
Winner
Isaac Khanyile
Merit Award Winners
Hanneke Benadé
Wim Botha
Samkelo Bunu
Berco Wilsenach
1997
Winner
Ilse Pahl
Merit Award Winners
Lucas Bambo
Cecile Heystek
Kim Lieberman
Richardt Strydom
(Known as Volkskas Bank Atelier Competition up to 1998 and from 1999 to 2001 known as Absa Atelier Competition)
113. 111
1998
Winner
Karl Gietl
Merit Award Winners
Wayne Barker
Hanneke Benadé
Jean Brundrit
Peter Rippon
1999
Winner
Ryan Arenson
Merit Award Winners
Brad Hammond
Fritha Langerman
Albert Redelinghuys
Vanessa van Wyk
2000
Winner
Brad Hammond
Merit Award Winners
Joni Brenner
Natasha Christopher
Colbert Mashile
Nigel Mullins
2001
Winner
Stefanus Rademeyer
Merit Award Winners
Marco Cianfanelli
Daniel Hirschmann
Brent Meistre
Merryn Singer
2002
Winner
Marco Cianfanelli
Merit Award Winners
Natasha Christopher
Alastair McLachlan
Benninghoff Puren
James Webb
2003
Winner
Sanell Aggenbach
Merit Award Winners
Retha Bornmann
Natasha Christopher
Patricia Driscoll
Berco Wilsenach
2004
Winner
Conrad Botes
Merit Award Winners
Stephen Hobbs
Pieter Hugo
Lize Muller
Robert Rich
Gerard Sekoto Winner
Belinda Zangewa
2005
Winner
Berco Wilsenach
Merit Award Winners
Katherine Bull
Lawrence Lemaoana
Patrice Mabasa
Mikhael Subotzky
Gerard Sekoto Winner
Lawrence Lemaoana
2006
Winner
Ruth Sacks
Merit Award Winners
Nathani Lüneburg
Riason Naidoo
Anet Norval
James Webb
Gerard Sekoto Winner
Nomusa Makhubu
2007
Winner
Pierre Fouché
Merit Award Winners
Nina Barnett
Wayne Matthews
Lyndi Sales
Jaco Spies
Gerard Sekoto Winner
Nina Barnett
