The Cry Sculpture

I was born in 1955; grew up and studied in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. In 1977, married Paul, a medical doctor. Between 1977 and 2000, worked as a nursing sister in various hospitals and private practices within the different Provinces of South Africa. From 2003 until 2005, lectured in the Fine Art Department, Buffalo City College, East London, South Africa. At present we work and live on the beautiful Wild Coast with its unspoilt beaches between East London and Umtata, South Africa. I employ the relationship between people, animals, the land and the interconnectedness of all as subject matter. I am inspired by people, animals, nature and especially relationships. The way humans interact with one another, their environment, including animals. My artworks become visual metaphors of the conscience - not as solutions, but as visual statements that could alter socially and personally constructed perceptions. My intention is to depict the fragility of Being within a world devoid of a serene human destiny. A world marked by a fragile and an imperceptible equilibrium that does not belong to Man. Greed, Narcissism and the stereo-typification of social behaviour in-terms-of gender have destroyed the interconnectedness between homo-sapiens and between people, the animal and plant world. My bronze sculptures explore the complex and intricate nuances behind womanhood, the status of women; including the interconnectedness between male and female species; humanity and the environment; and between people and animals. Through my artworks I intend to expose the transformation of gender roles. I employ the traditional lost wax bronzing techniques to create unique bronze sculptures. My art process begins with a concept which is visualized by photographing and drawing various poses find in Yoga and ballet, which I enjoy. At times, I use the Bible, anatomy books, found objects, beads and fabric. I create an armature with wire and use wax to add volume. The completed wax sculptures are sent to a Foundry in Pretoria, South Africa. In close communication with the Foundry staff, each sculpture is cast, patinated and polished to give it its own character. The final product is mounted, signed and receives and edition. Bronze has become a classical medium for my sculptures as it allows me to eternally question the meaning of life.