In the Midst of Painting - A Journey Through South African Abstraction

The brushstrokes dance across the canvas, a vibrant symphony of color and texture, echoing the soul of a nation grappling with its past and yearning for its future. “In the Midst of Painting,” by renowned South African art historian and critic Karel Nel, offers an insightful exploration into the evolution of abstract art in South Africa. This isn’t merely a dry academic treatise; it’s a passionate love letter to the movement, infused with Nel’s deep understanding of its historical context and the personal journeys of the artists who dared to break free from tradition.

Abstract Art: A Rebellious Act

The genesis of abstract art in South Africa, as Nel eloquently articulates, was inextricably linked to the tumultuous political landscape of the 20th century. Artists, yearning for expression beyond the confines of representational painting, sought solace and a voice in abstraction. This artistic rebellion mirrored the societal upheaval unfolding around them, with apartheid casting its long shadow over every facet of life.

Nel delves into the key figures who spearheaded this movement:

Preller’s canvases pulsated with an otherworldly energy, blending surreal landscapes with evocative figures drawn from indigenous mythology. Battiss, with his whimsical creatures and kaleidoscopic color palettes, channeled the primal forces of nature. Stern, though known for her portraiture, also explored abstract compositions imbued with the vibrant hues and textures of Africa.

Beyond Form and Color: The Essence of Being

“In the Midst of Painting” transcends a mere survey of stylistic trends. Nel probes deeper, uncovering the philosophical underpinnings that drove these artists to embrace abstraction. He argues that for them, it wasn’t just about rejecting figurative representation; it was about tapping into the very essence of being, exploring the subconscious mind and the emotional landscapes within.

Nel masterfully weaves together historical analysis with insightful commentary on individual works, drawing connections between artistic intent and the socio-political context. For example, he analyzes how artists like Battiss used abstract forms to express a yearning for liberation, both personal and societal.

A Visual Feast: Production Features and Legacy

The book itself is a work of art. High-quality reproductions of key paintings adorn its pages, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the vibrant textures and intricate compositions.

Nel’s prose is as engaging as it is erudite. He avoids dry academic jargon, opting for a conversational style that makes complex ideas accessible to a wider audience. His passion for South African art is infectious, inspiring readers to delve deeper into this rich artistic tradition.

The legacy of these pioneers continues to resonate in contemporary South African art. Their boldness and innovation paved the way for future generations of artists to explore new frontiers of expression. “In the Midst of Painting” serves not only as a celebration of their achievements but also as an inspiration for anyone seeking to understand the transformative power of art.

Let’s delve deeper into some specific examples discussed by Nel:

Alexis Preller’s “The Garden”: Nel describes this monumental work as a “tapestry of dreamlike imagery,” where distorted figures and vibrant colors blend seamlessly. He interprets the painting as a reflection of Preller’s own internal struggles, his search for meaning in a world scarred by war and oppression.

Walter Battiss’s “The Cyclists”: Battiss’s fascination with bicycles is evident throughout his oeuvre. In this particular work, the cyclists appear as abstract forms, their movements frozen in time. Nel suggests that these figures symbolize the constant pursuit of freedom and liberation, a theme central to South African art during the apartheid era.

Irma Stern’s “Baobab Tree”: This powerful painting captures the majesty and resilience of the baobab tree, an iconic symbol of Africa. Nel interprets it as a metaphor for the enduring spirit of the African people, their ability to withstand adversity and thrive in challenging environments.

“In the Midst of Painting,” therefore, is not simply a book about art; it’s a window into the soul of a nation. It reminds us that art has the power to transcend borders, languages, and cultures, connecting us through shared experiences of joy, sorrow, hope, and resilience.