Fourways artist brings vibrancy and colours to Paulshof pub

The appreciation of art among the community was and will continue to be the driving force for Fourways-based artist Duke Farouk Abdie.

August 10, 2022

Khomotso Makgabutlane 1 minute read

Duke Farouk Abdie creates a portrait of Off the Grid co-owner Albert Gumbo and his wife at the art exhibition. Photo: Supplied

Off the Grid in Paulshof hosted a colourful art exhibition for community members.

Fourways resident and artist Duke Farouk Abdie displayed a number of pieces done in pastel, oil paint, pencil and charcoal that he has worked on over the years at the exhibition from July 29 to 30. It also featured artwork of late former president Nelson Mandela, comedian Trevor Noah and various other subjects.

A burst of colour at Off the Grid in Paulshof is courtesy of artwork displayed by artist Duke Farouk Abdie. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

In preparation for the exhibition, Abdie created a few more oil painting pieces using vibrant colours. “Some of my artwork has recently been sold at Bryanston Gallery, and I saw that those pieces are being bought more because of the vibrant colours. The more people appreciate and view the art, the more inspiration and motivation I get to keep going.”

Fourways-based artist Duke Farouk Abdie with a few of his art pieces exhibited at Off the Grid in Paulshof. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

He shared that he had sent the late former president artworks of him and was acknowledged by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. “I have this Mandela collection here among other works today. When the foundation reached out to me, I felt very excited and I started doing more pieces. Aside from those pieces, I have a few pieces here with more colour,” he said.

Maurice Morgan and artist Duke Farouk Abdie with a number of artwork on display at Off the Grid in Paulshof. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Abdie has previously exhibited his art in Dainfern. He would love to teach children with an eye for art through his website. “I’m hoping that parents who view my work would maybe want to have their child learn about art. I’m hoping to encourage young children through my website as that way I would be sharing the skills I have. I’ve always had this wish to share skills with others. It’s no use having skills and you keep them to yourself.”

John Lennon and jazz musicians are at the core of the work of Fourways-based artist Duke Farouk Abdie. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

During the art exhibition, Abdie thanked Off the Grid’s co-owner Albert Gumbo and his wife. He said Gumbo encouraged him organise an exhibition. “This conversation with Albert [Gumbo] was maybe a month back, so it gave me time to prepare for the event and brought three new pieces. It was his willingness, and I was really grateful for that as it allows some exposure,” he concluded.
Details: faroukabdie@gmail.com