Werner Bronkhorst’s latest exhibition, titled “Sail Away,” offers a glimpse into a world where the vast expanse of the ocean dominates the horizon. With rising sea levels and the looming threat of climate change, Bronkhorst’s mixed-media works capture the essence of solitude in the face of an ever-changing environment.
The collection, currently on display at Dellaposa, showcases small, isolated figures navigating the waters, whether trudging towards the beach or surfing on endless waves. The backdrop of each piece consists of thick impasto strokes in varying shades of blue, creating an abstract canvas that dwarfs the already minuscule characters. According to the artist, the process involves pouring layers of gel and waiting for landscapes to emerge before adding the figures, resulting in a striking contrast between the vastness of the ocean and the tiny human presence.
Bronkhorst’s subjects evoke a sense of disconnection and dissociation, reflecting the isolating effects of a post-digital world. Viewed from afar, the figures appear almost pixelated, their features indiscernible amidst the gestural environments that surround them.
Originally from Pretoria, South Africa, Bronkhorst now resides and works in Australia. His work can be found on Instagram, where he shares more of his artistic practice.
The exhibition features a series of archival pigment prints on heavyweight canvas, each piece meticulously crafted and framed to enhance the visual impact. From small ships sailing on blue impasto strokes to individuals heading to the beach, the artworks in “Sail Away” invite viewers to contemplate the vastness of the ocean and the fragility of human existence in the face of nature’s power.
As visitors immerse themselves in Bronkhorst’s world of blue hues and solitary figures, they are encouraged to reflect on their own relationship with the environment and the ever-changing landscape of our planet. “Sail Away” serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving our oceans for future generations.
