Meeting Carl Roberts launched in Durban
by Carol Brown
A new book on Durban sculptor Carl Roberts was launched last month. The monograph, written by Neil Wright, the owner of Bonisa Private Gallery, is a welcome addition to the rapidly growing resources on local artists. Many commercial galleries have started producing monographs in order to promote their stable of artists. Michael Stevenson Contemporary and the Goodman Gallery have been notable leaders in this field producing some excellently researched and designed books. KwaZulu-Natal has lagged behind up until now so it is commendable to see this initiative taking place.
Roberts studied for his undergraduate and Master's degrees at Rhodes University under Namibian born Joshua Nell. He lectured in the Fine Arts Departments at the Universities of Durban-Westville, Rhodes and Natal before becoming a full-time sculptor in 1995. He works in a serene, wooded environment in Kloof in KwaZulu-Natal together with his wife Joanna, who is a ceramic restorer. Roberts' sculptures draw on the natural environment using wood and bone. They are generally naturalistic and anthropomorphic and are represented in many public and private collections both locally and overseas. Roberts' works are to be found in the permanent collections of the Durban Art Gallery, the Tatham Art Gallery, the ABSA collection and the International Convention Centre in Durban as well as in other parts of the country.
The book, called Meeting Carl Roberts has a chapter by well known Port Elizabeth art critic, artist and lecturer, Jeanne Wright who brings an analytical perspective to the book which is mainly about Carl Roberts, the man. The book is well illustrated, informative and written in an accessible manner.
This 128 page book is available directly from the author on (031) 764 0288, at the African Art Centre, or by e-mail on bonisa47@mweb.co.za
