The 35 arts works that form part of Spier Wine Estate’s collection celebrates 25 years of South African democracy.
Artists Athi-Patra Ruga, Helen Sebidi and Ricky Ayanda Dyaloyi have created a collection of paintings, sculptures, photos, beadwork and drawings to powerfully illustrate art as a catalyst for change.
The phrase “I see U” is often used on social media to give recognition and support, to connect and to acknowledge someone’s achievements in spite of the challenges they face. It originated in the blockbuster film, Avatar, and has become popular especially among young people. By using this youthful colloquialism, the exhibition offers a reminder of the young age of our democracy.
Spier has been a longstanding supporter of the arts because we believe they are a powerful tool for transformation – sparking new insights and inspiring us to engage with our world in new and imaginative ways. – says Spier CEO Andrew Milne.
I See U’s curator Olga Speakes was guided by the insight that much has been achieved over 25 years of democracy and much more needs to be done. “By imagining the possibilities of freedom, artists open the door to real change,” says Speakes. “Artists hold a mirror to our society and our history and to speak back to us through their creations. They are the ones who are able to see our world in a way that opens different, deeper ways of knowing it. And so, by supporting artists we support our freedom.”
You can catch the I See U collection at Spier Wine Estate from 29 August to 30 November 2019 daily from 9am till 5pm. Entrance is free.
