KNYSNA NEWS - Women, a fitting title for the latest group exhibition by Knysna Arts Society, opened at the Old Gaol Museum on Women's Day 9 August.

The exhibition comprises works by 43 local artists honouring women through various mediums.

One such artist is Eugine Lewis, who exhibited for the first time with the society. He explained that his works are all about embodying and celebrating African cultures and traditions. Commenting on his ceramic artwork of a Xhosa woman in African regalia with her baby on her back, he said, "This artwork symbolises how strong African women are, how they carry their families, communities, struggles, dream on their backs. This piece like all my pieces celebrate and raise awareness about different cultures."

The arts society's chair Brett Baker said the committee is dedicated to showcasing works that are relevant to what is happening in town and around the country, hence their choice on Women's Day to pay homage to the

20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956, the women in their lives and women in general.

"And most of our artists are women, so this was to honour them too."

Wendy Dewberry also shared her artistry through her music and the snacks available were prepared by women. One of the attendees, Siphokazi Nomafefe, said she enjoyed the music, and added, "The paintings were interesting and the food was amazing. It was a beautiful evening with art."

The exhibition runs until Saturday 17 August.

Their next exhibition, Timbertown meets Sprung, is scheduled for September.

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