About
Through spending a lot of time in South Africa I have developed an interest in African art in general and also in the cave paintings of the San bushmen.
I have tried to use features of these cave paintings to produce decorative paintings on canvas which has been textured to simulate a natural rock surface. It is an attempt to show how these rock paintings would look if modern materials such as acrylic paint were used.
The Cave images are naive but they were highly symbolic to the bushmen. The Eland featured prominently as it was treated with some reverence and also many of the hunter figures were depicted with animal heads. These are known as therianthropes (part animal, part human) and were believed to represent transformations to harness the power of the animal. I haven’t attempted to accurately convey these messages but have just tried to create decorative art which is a little unusual.
The paintings are intended to be hung without frames to enhance the appearance of being a slab of rock.
Other paintings shown are also on similarly textured canvas and are in a more contemporary African style. Many depicting the Maasai people and in a semi abstract style which is common to much modern African art.
I make no excuses for using ideas I have got from these African artists as I hope it will increase awareness of the wealth of talent which goes unrewarded in the country. Treat them as pure decoration and buy them if they match your curtains!
I have also painted similar scenes on ceramic floor tiles which have a rock like finish. These have been utilised as a decorative frieze on the wall of the stoep of the house in South Africa and can be painted in any style to order.
Paintings are priced around £60 – £120 dependent on size and/or any exhibition expenses. All negotiable.
Tiles would be priced depending on quantities and basic tile costs.
Contact stuart.floyd1@ntlworld.com Tel. 01332 663122