Gallery
KNYSNA NEWS - The historical Knysna Fine Art gallery at Thesen House recently celebrated 20 years on the block with guests pouring into the gallery to congratulate owner Trent Read on the milestone.
Read, son of the late Everard Read who was the doyen of South African art dealers, said that 20 years is a huge achievement for any business, and that the gallery is lucky to have survived this long.
In a short speech on Thursday 9 November, Read said the two decades had not been without its bumps along the way, and he went on to thank patrons for their continued support over the years, and also the numerous guests who attended the celebration, especially fire victims.
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"For those who lost so much and are here tonight, thank you," he said.
Artists were available to mingle and talk to guests about their work. There were 100 works of arts comprising of the work of about 80 artists.
Lucinda Mudge, a ceramic artist who has exhibited with the gallery for eight years, and also elsewhere in South Africa and internationally, said, “Trent has been a fantastic mentor as he has guided me throughout my journey as an artist."
Mudge has exhibited in the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain, and has also held a solo exhibition in London.
"Every year there’s something different and exciting; it’s been a fantastic journey of exploration and fun. I couldn’t ask for a nicer relationship,” said Mudge.
Philemon Hlungwani , one of the most accomplished contemporary artists in South Africa, has been showcasing his works with the gallery for nine years. He was also at the exhibition.
Hlungwani said, “Trent changed my life for the better. He and his staff are like family to me. They’ve always treated me with respect and have always been good to me.
"Twenty years is a huge achievement," he said, adding that he appreciated Trent's good heart.
He said he is especially happy with the introduction of Read's son Jake to the business.
“Artists need security and Trent and his family are a brand as they’ve been in this business for many years, so his son joining the business gives us security, and ensures continuity. Here’s to many more years, Trent.”
Artist Marie Kerney echoed these sentiments when she said her journey with the gallery had been an amazing one.
New to the gallery, Blessing Ngubeni said he is excited to start his journey with the gallery.
“It takes real strength for any business to survive this long and for them to be still standing today in a small town and still growing shows their level of dedication. I'm excited to be part of their next chapter and can only hope my works will add value to the gallery," said Ngubeni, praising the way artists were dealt with by the gallery.
Recardo Kamfer, who has been a familiar face at the gallery over the years, said, “I’ve been with the gallery for 15 years now, it’s the only job I know. It’s been great and I've enjoyed my time here.
"I love my job and cannot imagine myself doing anything else.”
When Kamfer joined the gallery he was doing odd jobs and has since grown to be a stock control manager.
“This is a huge milestone especially for a seasonal town; since joining the business I have never looked back. I mean, how can I with an amazing boss like Trent as I’ve learnt a lot from him.”
Just from the opening night there were already red stickers next to some of the items, signifying opening sales – a good start to the exhibition that runs until the end of January 2018.
ARTICLE & PHOTOS: NWABISA PONDOYI, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD JOURNALIST
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