The fifty black and white woodcuts and their corresponding vividly painted woodblocks make up a large body of work that will be exhibited for the first time at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival in 2017 (29 June – 9 July).
Guy Thesen has exhibited solo shows twice before at the National Arts Festival, first in 2013 and then in 2015.
This current work was initially influenced by the books of Alice A Bailey regarding esoteric study and contemplation.
"Entangling", painted wood, 25 x 40 cm
“My work explores the subtle inner reality and awareness of what it is to be human within the real confines of a physical body, subject to the laws of the material world manifest around us.
The theme of my images explores many aspects of our common humanity, such as our purpose, meaning and ultimate destiny.
Questions explored by the images are, amongst others: Is there a benevolent subjective force guiding us towards a basic purpose, or are we a fortuitous once off incident in a vast uncaring universe? Are we not maybe in some way in a gradual spiritual evolution towards an eventual common destination beyond our current mental comprehension, yet unbroken within a continuation of individual consciousness in both states known as life and death?
"Fishing", painted wood, 25 x 40 cm
Preview exhibition: www.guythesen.co.za
Where: Fort Selwyn, Grahamstown
When: 29 June – 9 July 2017
Times: 09:00 – 17:00 daily
The post Grahamstown National Arts Festival 2017 presents Bridges by Guy Thesen appeared first on LitNet.