An exhibition by MIES, Pierneefskraal, Pretoria
Echoes Along the Road reflects on the journey between Stellenbosch and Pretoria, a route etched into South Africa’s collective memory. For some, it signifies the excitement of holidays and exploration; for others, it carries the weight of farewells, homecomings, or life’s pivotal transitions. From the vineyards of Paarl to the expansive landscapes of Colesberg and the city lights of Pretoria, this body of work captures towns and moments that have shaped the lives of so many.
Each painting in this collection serves as a chapter in a shared story, portraying towns like Paarl, Colesberg, Drie Susters, and Pretoria. Recognizable landmarks stand as anchors of familiarity, offering a sense of place and connection. Interspersed among these are more abstract works—where the lack of identifying features of the town represented leaves the viewer with a sense of mystery—symbolizing the individuality of our experiences along this well-traveled path.
This exhibition is especially meaningful to me as it is held in J.H. Pierneef’s old studio. His work, which explored the vastness and diversity of South Africa’s landscapes, was a source of inspiration for this collection. Like Pierneef, I sought to honor the varied beauty of our country. Pierneef’s iconic pink mountains, a recurring theme in his work, inspired me to include my own subtle nods to his palette—a playful yet heartfelt homage.
Through Echoes Along the Road, I invite viewers to explore their own memories of these places ( I often say that the beauty of a piece of art so heavily relies on the richness of the viewers past experiences), the landscapes that shaped them, and the shared yet deeply personal nature of these journeys.
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