Tyrrel Thaysen

N.Dip Fine Art (Michaelis School of Fine Art)

It is my aim to create works of the highest aesthetic, formal and conceptual integrity. I want to lift the human spirit in awe. It is a celebration of life in all it's diversity and splendour. The work adds to the quality of life via reinforcing positive feelings, emotions or thoughts. Interaction with the work therefore becomes a therapeutic process, even life affirming.
Themes range from the personal through to the political, but it is predominantly about the individual's journey. It is also about creating awareness with the possibility of change. The creative process to a large extent has been about making sense of the reality I find myself in. A visual diary. My working process is one of experimentation and play. It is a child-like process of discovery.

biography

Selected Exhibitions:

Solo Exhibitions

2006
Association of Visual Arts, Cape Town

1995
Association of Visual Arts, Cape Town

Group Exhibitions

2010
U.C.T. Irma Stern Museum: A special exhibition for winter 2010

Association of Visual Arts: Creative Block exhibition, Cape Town

2007
Design Indaba

2005
The Eight Triangle Arts Trust/Vermont Studio Centre Fellows funded by the Ford Foundation

2004
Brett Kebble Art Awards, curated by Clive van den Berg

2003
Brett Kebble Art Awards, curated by Clive van den Berg

Residencies

2005
2nd Annual Vermont Studio Centre Triangel Arts Residency Fellowship Program

1999/2000
Thapong International, Botswana National Museum and Art Gallery

Collections
Haven Holdings, Johannesburg (paintings)
Hollard, Johannesburg (paintings)
Department of Economic Development & Tourism (sculpture)
Thapong, Botswana National Museum and Art Gallery (Sculpture and paintings)
District Six Museum (paintings)

Published Articles

Andrew Donaldson, The Fine Art Of Collecting (Style Magazine, 1996)
Andrew Putter, Sculptures That Elude Easy Classification Most Fascinating (Argus 1991)

interview

What is your favourite film of all time?!
The Incredibles

What music are you currently listening to and why?
Music from the 80's because the lyrics are better

Which living artists do you most admire and why?
Jane Alexander for her sculptural ability and Willima Kentridge for his drawing skills.

Which deceased artist do you most admire and why?
Pablo Picasso for hin innovativeness.

Which exhibition that you have visited made the greatest impact on you and why?
Alberto Giacometti at the Tate - the sheer beauty of his work.

What is the question you get asked most frequently about your work and how do you answer it?
What medium is it? I explain the practical work methods I use.

What/who inspired you to be an artist?
Art is a visual diary for making sense of the reality I find myself in.

Can you tell us about where you make your art and what if any, the significance this location has.
From home - because I can have my pets around me all day!

What do you like most about being an artist?
The freedom of expression.

What is your greatest achievement as an artist to date?
Winning a 3 month residency in the U.S.A sponsored by the Ford Foundation.

What are your plans for the coming year?
To have a sculpture exhibition.