CLAY PROJECT @ SOLO STUDIOS Arts Town Riebeek Valley 08-11 Aug 2019 www.solostudios.co.za
Andries Dirks grew up in an impoverished environment in Riebeek Kasteel, and discovered his love of sculpting as a child whilst forming figures and shapes from mud while playing along the river banks of the Riebeek Valley. It was only many years later however, when he was incarcerated in the Riebeek West Correctional Facility that his deft and artistic talent was noted during skills development programs offered by the prison staff. Upon his release he was encouraged to pursue a career in ceramic sculpture and pottery, and managed to secure a number of commissions for his creative works. Intermittent periods of incarceration, combined with attempting to hold down various part time jobs, have prevented Andries from making a full time living from his exceptional skill. Above: Andries Dirks and sons Right: Leila Fanner’s Texture Pods
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