Local artist to hold first solo exhibition of the year at gallery in Parkhurst

South African artist Sharon Sampson will host her first solo exhibition for the year at Halifax Art Gallery in Parkhurst. The exhibition, which will open on 12 July, has been entitled The Circle of Life and was inspired by a series of events surrounding a massive oak tree at Sampson’s previous residence.

“We moved into a house 26 years ago and there was a very large tree that was quite spectacular,” explained Sampson. “However, about seven years ago it was decided that the tree needed a small trim around the top and edges.”

Unfortunately, upon arriving home, Sampson was devastated to see that the tree had received far more than a small trim.

After she had moved out the house, she would still drive passed to see the tree growing back. However, one day she noticed that the tree had been chopped down completely. Luckily, Sampson came across the men who were chopping it down and asked them to save her a slice of the tree. The large slice, 35cm thick and a metre and a half wide, was delivered to her residence where she planned to make a print from the slice.

“I really wanted to do something with it to make sure it is never forgotten.”

This inspired her exhibition which focuses on a circle which represents birth, survival and death. The exhibition comprises about 30 prints and oil paintings. Sampson has a large printing press at her home which is where she creates her work.

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The Circle of Life will demonstrate the various phases of life including growth, maturity, decay and the works will highlight the renewal and rejuvenation which is found in nature.

The exhibition opening will be held on 12 July at 6 pm at the gallery situated on 35A Fourth Avenue in Parkhurst.

Details: For more details about the exhibition, email Dana MacFarlane on dana@16halifaxart.co.za

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