Newswire : New Experimental Art Space Launching in Riebeek Kasteel | 10 December 2017

Published 10 December 2017 in Press

https://arttimes.co.za/newswire-new-experimental-art-space-launching-riebeek-kasteel-10-december-2017/

A unique art gallery has been launched in the Western Cape town of Riebeek Kasteel that is providing a space for non-commercial experimental art projects by established and emerging artists.

This new art space situated just off the town’s busy square will be offering art events and experiences rather than more traditional static exhibitions.

RK Contemporary is the brainchild and passion project of Astrid McLeod, who is also the owner and senior curator of Riebeek Kasteel’s well known art gallery entitled The Gallery.

“My goal is to create an engaging, thought-provoking space that is used to foster awareness on pressing social and environmental issues facing us today,” explains McLeod. “I want people to interact with the art at RK Contemporary in such a way that it leaves lasting impressions by stimulating more than just their visual sense.”

The inaugural event to take place at RK Contemporary is an eco-awareness exhibition entitled “IMPERMANENT” by up-and-coming photographic artist Alex Oelofse who recently graduated from the Michaelis School of Fine Arts.

Running from the 10th of December until the 14th of January,

IMPERMANENT aims to raise awareness about the interplay between population growth, resource depletion, environmental degradation and the increasing role that politics and power has in this – with a specific focus on water. Oelofse’s thought-provoking body of work is rooted in the wonder of water, its spiritual, meditative and cleansing properties and he deliberately focuses on images of extreme contrasts and absurdity.

“In the light of the Western Cape’s current drought, with IMPERMANENT we hope to create awareness concerning this dire situation,” says McLeod.

McLeod founded The Gallery in Riebeek Kasteel in 2012. It was one of the first art gallery’s to open its doors in this small rural town and has served a valuable role in promoting the work of the many talented and renowned artists that call the town home – providing a local, central point where the artists can exhibit to the public.

RK Contemporary now promises to bring an exciting new element into the town, and McLeod is currently planning a calendar of art events, projects and exhibitions for 2018.