you’ll undoubtedly remember south african artist Marsi van de Heuvel from her outer space themed exhibition Dark Matter from a couple of years back (if not, be sure to check that post out). Marsi has moved on to something far more earthly, botanical even, with her new exhibition Ceremony. now before looking at these images, keep in mind that Marsi has drawn each one of these with a fineliner pen…
Marsi sees herself as a painter. She approaches the colour and layers in her works as if she is working with oil paint; this gives the ‘drawings’ a radiant quality. Her most recent work of abstract drawings and drawings of flowers explore our inner, intimate landscape and the beauty and warmth of human connection. She describes the process behind this new body of work as being similar to the performance of ballet that is graceful and effortless but the practice of which is in fact very rigid, repetitive and restrictive. Making lightness and finding internal space within restraints, results in harmony. This is what she attempts with layers of one directional mark making; to create openness and beauty within the struggle. Regarding the subject of ‘Ceremony’, van de Heuvel explains, “our world is full of challenge, chaos and pain; the only thing that makes sense to me in this sometimes trying existence is compassion – those quiet, vibrant moments of connection. Flowers are consolations, they celebrate the ceremonies of life and offer comfort when confronting death. To be compassionate is to be like a flower – open, vulnerable and radiant.”
the exhibition opens today at SMITH in Cape Town, and will run till 21 January 2017. as far as i know some of these pieces are still available to purchase – contact the gallery if you’re interested.