it may just be the proximity of my birthday and the prospect of growing older, but on a different level it may also be the need to connect with frailty and fatality. i’ve always been drawn to the north and being from africa and perpetual sunshine, i’ve always found the north… well north, where the compass points to, you know.
my first time on the stage receiving a prize was when i was 8 and the prize was a trophy and a book; the polar regions, filled with images of polar bears, whales, dog sleds all rolled into an extreme landscape. spitsbergen, iceland and norway were to me what elephants, lions and the african savanna were to others.
so apart from the fact that i’m such a bear lover, there’s also the celestial component, the sky, the midnight sun and the aurora borealis, the northern lights; all of which is extremely good for one’s spiritual hygiene and a healthy existential perspective. add to this the auspicious astro-event of the eclipse and what better way could there be to celebrate one’s birth but in svalbard,norway. the only place on land where this eclipse is visible in it’s totality and home to the northernmost settlement on earth. i guess that’s one way to feel on top of the world.
LB Louis Boshoff
Ecliptic Exposure
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.