From the Director's desk
Brendan Bell
By the time you read this, the book Storm in the Wheatfield will have been launched. This was an ambitious six-year project and I am delighted (and relieved) that it is done. It's the first time that really comprehensive information about the Gallery collection has been published. One of its strengths is the illustrations - all in full colour.
The book was specifically designed so that it's a comfortable read. I hope I'm persuading you that the book is worth buying.
To complement the book we've rehung the entire first floor with two displays. This has taken a lot of time, but has been worth the effort. It's just so interesting to see the development of the collection chronologically in the Perimeter Gallery - especially the shift from Victorian and Edwardian painting to a more Modernist approach in acquisitions from the 1960s.
Even more astonishing is the Whitwell collection, which occupies the rest of the first floor. I believe it's the first time since 1926 that virtually the entire gift is on display at one time, so it's not to be missed. As fascinating as the gift is the man himself, Colonel Robert Whitwell. But you'll have to read that story in the book.
We are busy preparing for the opening of Jabulisa 2010: the art and craft of KwaZulu-Natal. This is a major undertaking which requires us using the entire ground floor of the Gallery. Accompanied by an illustrated catalogue, this show is the highlight of our exhibition calendar in 2010.
Andrew Verster
Alter Ego
Mixed media on paper
I can not thank my staff enough for their willingness to go the extra mile! They've worked tirelessly to the most exacting deadlines during the first half of this year - and still manage to smile. The whole exhibition programme has required considerable planning and attention to detail, very much like a military exercise. I am proud to have such a capable miniature army.
Busi and Pretty, our two interns from DUT, have returned to full-time studies. They've been a huge help to us, and have gained much experience which will help them in the future. We wish them good luck.
The parking issue is being worked on. It is a slow process, to a large extent dependent on us gaining clarity on Parliament's occupation rights. First prize is to develop the Church Street garden as an enclosed memorial and outdoor sculpture area, with a small amphitheatre for outdoor performances. This would be complemented by a properly planned parking area in the garden facing Langalibalele Street.
Misuse of the Gallery's public toilet facilities has necessitated us installing a pay-to-use system. This will not apply when there are functions in the Gallery.
Many of our present security staff are new to the Gallery. A training programme is planned but will take time to implement. Please bear with us, but don't hesitate to report unacceptable interactions.
Whilst the Municipality is under Administration, we will continue to make every attempt to maintain excellent service delivery as usual.
Brendan Bell