Published by Aiden Daries on February 15, 2025
Cape Town’s art scene is about to experience something truly unique with the arrival of the highly anticipated exhibition ‘How Far is Africa?’.
Running from 19 to 23 February 2025, at 18 Loop Street, the exhibition will showcase the latest works of four internationally recognized artists: Annette Werndl, Guillermo Bublik, Claudia Hassel, and Leonard Gabriel. This exhibition marks the culmination of their third joint residency, following successful programs in the United States and Mexico.
The exhibition promises to be a striking blend of abstract expressionism, geometric abstraction, and figurative painting. These diverse artistic styles converge to create a rich dialogue about colour, form, and human expression. The four artists have spent years collaborating, cultivating a unique creative bond that is reflected in this exhibition. Their shared vision transcends geographic boundaries, united by a desire to connect deeply with their audiences.
The collaborative journey of Werndl, Bublik, Hassel, and Gabriel began in 2022 at the Eileen S Kaminsky Family Foundation in Jersey City, where the artists first joined forces. Since then, their partnership has blossomed through multiple residencies and exhibitions, culminating in this exciting Cape Town event.
Annette Werndl, a German-born painter, has been honing her craft since childhood. Encouraged by her father, who exhibited her works in his furniture store, Werndl’s early exposure to art shaped her painterly style, deeply rooted in abstract expressionism. Over the years, she has studied under renowned artists such as Markus Lüpertz, Jerry Zeniuk, and Hermann Nitsch. Her works, sought after globally, have been displayed in prestigious galleries in New York, Mexico, and Germany.
For Guillermo Bublik, an Argentine artist now based in the US, painting is an exploration of the underlying patterns of the world. Having previously worked as a physicist, Bublik’s approach to art is informed by his scientific background. His art, he says, forms a connection with viewers that is deeply personal and meaningful. ‘To think that something I made may become part of someone’s life tickles me beyond measure,’ he reflects.
Claudia Hassel, another German-born artist, brings her exploration of colour to the forefront of her work. Known for creating dynamic, multidimensional compositions that combine geometric and organic forms, Hassel’s paintings have been showcased in Germany, China, and the United States. ‘Colour is the most important element in my painting,’ she explains, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in her vibrant worlds.
Leonard Gabriel, a US citizen who splits his time between Italy and the US, captures the essence of human emotion through evocative body language. Gabriel’s artistic sensibility, honed through years in photography, advertising, and art education, allows him to create intimate paintings that resonate universally. His works have been exhibited in France, Spain, Italy, and the US, offering viewers a deeply emotional and raw glimpse into the human experience.
The ‘How Far is Africa?’ exhibition goes beyond individual artistry, celebrating the power of global collaboration. These four artists, hailing from different corners of the world, have come together to share their stories through art, engaging in a conversation that transcends borders and cultural divides. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the connections that unite us all, no matter where we come from.
Presented in partnership with The Artists Gallery, located at 34 Bree Street in Cape Town, the exhibition serves as a testament to the gallery’s mission of connecting artists with people. Co-owned and managed by South African artists, The Artists Gallery is dedicated to bringing global and local artistic visions together. This exhibition, with its international scope and timely debut during the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, adds a significant event to the city’s already vibrant art scene.
Jaret Loggenberg, Managing Director of The Artists Gallery, shared her excitement about the exhibition, stating, ‘We are immensely proud to have supported this residency for four remarkable artists, culminating in an exhibition that promises to be a standout moment in Cape Town’s art scene. Showcasing artists from different corners of the world in one space is a truly inspiring opportunity, and I have no doubt that this exhibition will be a highlight for art lovers and enthusiasts alike.’
Barbara Lenhard, part of the gallery team, has played a pivotal role in curating this exhibition. With years of experience curating exhibitions both locally and internationally, Lenhard’s recent collaboration with Werndl in Germany led to the idea of bringing this colourful and dynamic exhibition to Cape Town. The idea of connecting different artistic cultures through a shared passion for exploration is at the heart of the exhibition.
‘How Far is Africa?’ will be open daily from 19 to 23 February 2025, from 11am to 5pm at 18 Loop Street, Cape Town (corner of Waterkant Street). The exhibition is free to attend and offers a rare opportunity to experience the works of four internationally celebrated artists in one space.
For art lovers and collectors, this promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the powerful connections that art can create across continents and cultures.
Article courtesy of Cape{town}etc https://www.capetownetc.com/entertainment/cape-town-to-host-groundbreaking-art-exhibition-how-far-is-africa/
Additional articles of this amazing group of past residents and their adventure here;
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