ART TIMES FEATURED ART & ART BOOKS
The Story Weavers of the Boland Hand weaving has been a passion for The Kraal Gallery since its inception in 1973. Nestled between Stellenbosch, Somerset West and Greyton are three studios where the ancient practices of a German master weaver are passed on and developed. Through warp, weft and the love of textured art, the Kraal Gallery has blossomed into South Africa’s premier hand weaving artisanal industry, sending tapestries, rugs and other woven items all over the world. A social development initiative of The Kraal Gallery, Genadendal Hand Weavers, won the Premier Awards for Social Enterprise of the Year in 2013. Owner and manager, Alexander Daniel says: “Not only do we encourage our weavers to explore their hidden talents, but we also ensure that our weavers have the resources to grow their lives in the direction that they want to”.
Deeply passionate about quality and design, the team is about to launch a book titled: ‘Story Weaving in Africa’. “Woven stories of legend and folklore, as told around campfires by tribes and peoples have now found a permanent mark in ink and woven fibre”, says Alexander. “We have essentially taken heritage, updated by design and colour and stuck to original story-telling the way we know best how to – hand weaving”. The Kraal Gallery will launch 35 unique tapestries with the book in an exhibition early next year. This exhibition will then tour overseas, where the company is well-regarded.
www.thekraalgallery.com email: shopping@thekraalgallery.com 021 856 2130 or 021 883 3881
“The King of the Birds”
Also Recommended:
Eleanor Esmonde-White By Leanne Raymond
Widow Basquiat: A Love Story This limited edition coffee table book celebrates the life and work of the renowned South African artist, Eleanor Esmonde-White. Characterised by a sense of quite compassion in scenes of work and leisure, her work is highly collected and cherished. The artist’s etchings, lithographs and wood engravings have represented South Africa at both the Venice and Sao Paulo Biennale. Her murals and tapestries have adorned prominent public buildings in South Africa and London alike. Having risen to prominence as a member of Cape Town’s ‘New Group’, she was actively involved in the development of what is now considered South Africa’s Art History. Long overdue, this publication celebrates her contribution and legacy.
by Jennifer Clement Published by Broadway Books Available through: www.takealot.com | Exclusive Books
Art and Politics Now By Anthony Downey
Available through: leannemitchell2@gmail.com (+27) 082 328 4972
Graffiti South Africa
Published by Thames and Hudson Available through: www.thamesandhudson.com Reader’s Warehouse
The Elements of Sculpture
by Cale Waddacor
By Herbert George In a visual feast, hundreds of vibrant images showcase the work of South Africa’s most influential graffiti artists, which will entertain and inspire graffiti enthusiasts and art fanatics all over the world. Selective interviews with major graffiti personalities reveal their passions and inspirations and cover all aspects of the movement, creating a true representation of its evolution. Initially unknown for its graffiti scene, South Africa has now become a prime destination for many renowned international graffiti writers. From underground tunnels and abandoned buildings to train yards and townships, local writers, each with their own distinct style, spread their work across the nation. Now, for the first time ever, the global spotlight can fall on these talented artists.
Published by Phaidon Available through: uk.phaidon.com | Reader’s Warehouse
Leonardo’s Brain: Understanding Da Vinci’s Creative by Leonard Shlain
Available through: leannemitchell2@gmail.com (+27) 082 328 4972
Published by Lyon’s Press Available through: www.loot.co.za | Exclusive Books
SA ART TIMES | FEBRUARY 2015