my love for still life painting has been quite luke warm for the most part of the eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth centuries but i have however developed a serious fondness for the work of lesley vance and her abstract reference to seventeenth century spanish still life. these differed from their northern flemish and dutch counterparts with a distinct lack of plentitude and pleasure. their traditional baroque austerity has been beautifully abstracted by vance while still retaining a striking contemplative richness. what i enjoy about her interpretations is how she maintains a certain tension between her deliberately disguised forms which become even more pronounced with her darker backgrounds… but what the works have lost in shape they make up for in motion. the still life of lesley vance seems not so still after all; it has a dynamic force of colour and movement that rekindles the essence of still life… everyday shapes turned masterpiece.
LB Louis Boshoff
Abstract Ad-Vance
Stupidity & Sensitivity
Since it’s nearly impossible to gauge each individual’s level of sensitivity or stupidity, I’d rather play it safe and classify this site as suitable for adults only. Although that term is still nebulous to me, the responsibility remains that of the viewer.
Curating & Criticism
The identification and definition of creativity are two different things. Challenging conventional interpretations and perspectives expands its validity and effect. I am convinced that collaborations and participation across creative industries allow for discovering a greater realisation of our potential.
Art & Collecting
I love mixing styles and textures, media and materials. But I believe in respecting personality when it comes to choosing work. There is of course the investment angle which is too boring to discuss here….or anywhere really. It is important to remember that when you live with art, it should be alive to you. That is to say it needs to move you. You need to have an affair with it.
Fashion & Architecture
Starting with the roof over your head and the clothes on your back. These are the things we inhabit. Without entering into the fashion vs trend debate. They also shape our sensibilities and the way we present ourselves.
Design & Function
Whether colour or form is your thing. Pattern or plain. What we choose to live with can make our lives easier or more challenging. Consider your commitment and convince yourself.
Gardens & Flowers
Since Eden it has been a fascination, inspiration, an indulgence of kings and common gardeners, a joy. No home is complete without it. Whether you go for potted, landscaped or organic, dry or shade, just go for it.
Treasures & Trash
Most of which are filed under S for sentimental. I respect that.
Heirlooms. Bargains. Souvenirs. Gifts. Curiosities. Found Objects. Impulse Buys.
Never hide what’s important or meaningful. Denial is a very ugly word.
History & Reality
Get to know yourself and others. As much as we live in the same world, everyone has their own version of it. Live up to yours, never fear your dreams and ideals lest they remain aspirations forever.