Exciting exhibitions a drawcard for Artwalker

Writer: Hedda Mittner

When the rain started pouring down on Friday it did not bode well for the monthly Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) Artwalk. But thankfully, in the late afternoon, the skies cleared as enthusiastic artwalkers took to the streets to visit the 21 art galleries in the centre of town.

In Art Alley and The Courtyard off Harbour Road there was plenty to see, including the new Art@Africa Hermanus Gallery which had opened just the day before, Jewellery Art by Simon right next door, the Art of Thread exhibition at the FynArts Gallery, and an unusual display of ‘cat works’ at Rossouw Modern’s SPACE Gallery.

Heather Blackstock of Panthera Africa explained to artwalkers how the big cats in this sanctuary near Stanford had created the ‘paw paintings’, which were for sale along with a number of works donated by well-known local artist, Shelley Adams. This initiative forms part of Panthera’s fundraising efforts, following the devastating effect that Covid-19 has had on their ability to generate enough income to continue caring for the 25 rescued animals that are being provided a safe haven by this NPO.

Jacques and Theresa le Roux with Jacqui and Brennan Davis in front of Theresa’s stART Gallery in The Courtyard. Jacques and Brennan are co-owners of The Wine Glass, along with Mark Kahts.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

At the Lifestyle Studio Gallery in Aberdeen Street, this historic fisherman’s cottage previously occupied by The Barefoot Cook was a hive of activity. The premises now function as a gallery for local artist Jeandré Marinier, while also accommodating a special guest artist (this month it’s Stuart Dods), an exhibition of collectable art by various South African artists, ceramics by Erna Dry, home décor by Lavender & Lilies Interiors and Nguni rugs by Inkomo. This gallery also gives the students of the Hermanus Visual Art & Design Centre the opportunity to exhibit their work.

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