Walter Oltmann: In the Weave MyZA

In the Weave, an exhibition of works by Walter Oltmann, one of South Africa’s finest and most intriguing artists, opens at the Standard Bank Gallery on 29 January 2014.

Curated by Neil Dundas of the Goodman Gallery, In the Weave celebrates Oltmann’s output over the last three decades. It also explores his sources, inspirations and allusions to the exchange of concepts between cultures in southern Africa.

Although he is noted for his drawings, and also his prints, Oltmann is best known for his wire sculptures, for which he uses techniques which parallel handcrafts. Oltmann’s sculptures, which may be understood as three-dimensional drawings using wire, are intricately worked in time-intensive and demanding processes related to weaving, basket-making, textiles and vessels. His wire sculptures explore, or relate to, African traditions in functional art, carpet- and rug-making in many cultures, or familiar domestic crafts often associated with the home, but with material and imagery that seem sometimes incongruous in relation to these activities.

This exhibition runs until 29 March 2014, at the Standard Bank Gallery, corner of Simmonds and Frederick Streets, Johannesburg. The Gallery (Tel: 011 631 4467) is open Mondays to Fridays, 08:00-16:30; on Saturdays, 09:00-13:00; and is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Admission is free. For further information about Standard Bank Gallery see www.standardbanks.co.za.

Standard Bank Gallery
Corner Simmonds and Frederick Street, Johannesburg
Tel: 011 631 4467
Gallery hours: Mon-Fri, 08:00-16:30; Saturday, 09:00-13:00
The gallery is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Admission free
www.standardbankarts.co.za

Author: Fiona Gordon.