Andrew Verster - Odd Conversations

The work of Andrew Verster is currently on show at the KZNSA gallery in a solo exhibition titled Odd Conversations. The works boast stunning colour and pattern in Verster's decorative style. With a variety of pieces ranging from paintings on canvas to digital prints to collage, it is definitely interesting and worth taking a look at, but is it contemporary?

Odd Conversations l-Vll [Installation view]
2008
Wax, tissue paper, steel pins, pigment
120 x 80cm

Although Verster makes reference to art history throughout the works in the show, the strength of the works are the decorative and aesthetic qualities. I felt the strongest conceptual pieces to be the Notes on a crucifixion series displayed in the main gallery. Each series consisted of seven, oil on canvas panels each 120cm x 30 cm. Occupying each panel was an arm or leg painted in bright, bold complimentary colours and decorated with patterns of colour and historical images. The reference to art history in the images and Verster's careful consideration as to how to display these works suggested an underlying discourse in the work, although I felt that this particular series became too monotonous to prompt the viewer to engage in the work. Perhaps subtle differences in each series would promote dialogue between the works, but by using the same images in all the panels I was not challenged to look further.



Odd Conversations l-Vll [Installation view]
2008
Wax, tissue paper, steel pins, pigment
120 x 80cm

Throughout the show, the figures portrayed seem to be tattooed with pattern and design. I interpreted the tattooed images as commenting on how various ancient religions, cultures and beliefs are ultimately imprinted in history to influence the present. I also feel that Verster's choice to visually fuse various cultures and beliefs together comments on cultural hybridity.

Overall I felt that Verster's work is contemporary. The exhibition was visually stimulating, although pieces of the show became monotonous and works could have been pushed conceptually.

Nicole Erasmus