on my last visit to london, i had the privilege of seeing pierre huyge’s show entitled: in.border.deep.
pierre huyge‘s brilliant installation at hauser and wirth makes him my chosen artist of 2014. his mastery of portraying the ecosystem of life is surreptitious, suggestive and sensational. even as an impatient smoker i couldn’t resist seeing the ‘human mask’ video twice; (ironically post fukushima’s nuclear accident and in the advent of the ebola outbreak) which to me figures as a nervous primal conversation between human and animal. having travelled as much as i have, you only need to be asked: ‘where are you from?’ so many times before the question starts taking on a deeper existential meaning. the commentary on nature and humanity made this exhibition right up my alley in the same way. his ability to alter gallery experience and his reverence for history and it’s illuminating narrative layers is obviously appealing to me but further to my own subjectivity on the matter; his treatment of monet’s giverny lilyponds was exquisite to say the least (this coming from someone that never misses an opportunity to see the nymphéas in the musée de l’orangerie). his aquariums, like the antique statue, reconstitutes a life beyond that which is visible.
LB Louis Boshoff
In Border Deep
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.