Art Rooted in Nature: Evening Sale

Live Virtual Auction, 25 June 2024

Evening Sale
About the Session

South African artists have long drawn inspiration from the earth, capturing the beauty and complexity of flora and landscapes, with their works. The selection for sale emphasises themes of both human and non-human elements in nature, reflecting a profound connection to the environment.

This auction showcases a rich artwork medley that delves into the intricate relationship between the natural world and artistic expression. Featuring botanical depictions, landscapes, coastal scenes, floral still lifes and garden scenes in the Cape and beyond, the sale highlights the enduring relevance of nature in art, especially in the context of contemporary ecological concerns.

This auction celebrates the harmony between scientific precision and artistic creativity, making a compelling case for the ongoing relevance of depicting nature.

Running from 7 to 25 June to coincide with the Hermanus Fynarts Festival 2024, the Strauss & Co auction aims to complement the festival’s vibrant celebration of creativity in all its forms.


Sold for

ZAR 46 900
Lot 277
  • Sfiso Ka Mkame; Meeting of the Spirits
  • Sfiso Ka Mkame; Meeting of the Spirits
  • Sfiso Ka Mkame; Meeting of the Spirits


Lot Estimate
ZAR 40 000 - 60 000
Selling Price
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
ZAR 46 900

About this Item

South African 1963-
Meeting of the Spirits

signed, dated 22 and inscribed with the title

oil and pastel on paper
95,5 by 65,5cm excluding frame; 1115 by 80,5 by 4cm including frame

Notes

"Sfiso Ka Mkame employs a method of layering colour planes of oil pastel, scraping through the surfaces to produce rich patterning, emulating African fabric design. He celebrates the power of women and their nurturing role in society. Zulu cosmology and man’s interdependence with their ancestors are interpreted through colour juxtaposition and harmony. In Meeting of the Spirits, an ethereal atmosphere is suggested by the outward-looking faces, their bodies engaged but their focus elsewhere. There is an appearance they are dancing past one another but their legs are intertwined. Their patterned clothing, extending onto their skin, recalls the rich tradition of African fabrics."—Barbara Lindop

In celebration of the Hermanus Fynarts Festival 2024, Strauss & Co is proud to feature a selection of works curated by Intethe Gallery, Hermanus. The gallery was established in 2015 by Barbara Lindop, a legendary figure who has devoted over 45 years to identifying the extraordinary talent of Southern African artists. Lindop is perhaps best known for the work on Gerard Sekoto, one of South Africa’s most important modernist artists. Twenty–two artworks across the Day and Evening auctions are from Intethe Gallery’s collective. Barbara Lindop notes, "These artists, united in their common purpose, create aesthetic and relevant artistic commentary on contemporary sociopolitical concerns. Their work is poetic, powerful, and thought-provoking."

The auction will feature pieces addressing global warming, cultural practices, the beauty and spirituality of the natural world, political commentary, and the celebration of humanity. These themes are conveyed through various mediums including texture, line, colour planes, sculptural and ceramic forms. Lindop emphasises, "It is the privilege of the Gallery to assist in promoting these artists."

View all Sfiso Ka Mkame lots for sale in this auction