Cool Capital Sculpture Project: Saadjies Exhibition

WORDS Michaela Stehr

Saadjies, presented by Cool Capital, is a collection of miniature creations that challenge the perception that sculpture needs to be presented on a large scale.

The exhibition ties in with Cool Capital’s 2016 theme Small is Big, demonstrating that even small art can have a powerful impact.

“Our intention with the Saadjies project is to foster an appreciation and create awareness of the importance of sculpture and its impact in the built environment,” says Cool Capital convenor, Pieter Mathews.

The uncurated collection accepted all works submitted, creating a platform for young and emerging artists, with the small scale making it an affordable project for all. Artists from all over South Africa submitted works for the Pretoria-based exhibition, with more than 80 artworks submitted by 75 artists.

Well-known artists such as Angus Taylor, Gordon Froud, Jan van der Merwe and Guy du Toit are showing works, together with students, up-and-comers and enthusiasts.

Mathews & Associates Architects, Strauss & Co. Fine Art Auctioneers and Business and Arts South Africa have helped to make Saadjies a travelling exhibition. Artworks are being sent around the globe where they are photographed in different urban settings.

The exhibition will open on 22 September 2016 at the Anton van Wouw Museum in Pretoria. After the exhibition, Saadjies will be on display at the Alumni Hall of the NWU gallery in Potchefstroom as part of Aardklop, before moving on to Richmond and, in 2017, the Cape.