INSPIRED by nature, Hluhluwe-based artist Hilary Grant-Currie is exhibiting her latest collection entitled My Heritage at the Longmynd Art Gallery in Hillcrest, near Durban.
Investigating the relationship between the artist and her surroundings, Grant-Currie’s latest work eloquently captures her dependence on, and love of, nature, particularly aloes, rocks and trees.
Drawing with self-produced charcoal, Grant-Currie uses this burnt matter as an active, integral part in her art production.
She views her surroundings and the natural elements therein as part of her heritage, passed on from one generation to the next.
‘If I had an alter ego it would be a tree, more specifically a baobab,’ said Grant-Currie.
‘These majestic giants which can date back 1 000 years are humbling reminders of times gone by, vibrating with life’s energy.
‘Their size contrasts with their delicate and transient flowers. They are sensual, mythical, mystical beings, landmarks, providing food and shelter to many creatures’.
Grant-Currie graduated with a BA Fine Arts degree and a Teachers Diploma from Pretoria University and has been involved in art in one way or another for the past 34 years. Her sensitivity to, and passion for nature and her environment is expressed through her work.
She is based in Hluhluwe and works and exhibits extensively in the Highway Area and KZN Midlands.
My Heritage can be viewed at Longmynd Art Gallery in Hillcrest until 28 October. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 3.30pm.
