Time for fun at Art in the Park

Local artists Audrey Rudnick and Darren Aiken prepare to showcase their art this weekend
in Pietermaritzburg.

Darren is renown for his innovative interactive art and is introducing a new art brand ‘Ntshebe’, which is Darren’s Zulu name. Its affordable art done in monotones – acrylic and charcoal. Representing art that has evolved to suit the stressed economic climate in South Africa.

Creating art for the twenty first century is something Darren has been working tirelessly at. He believes that art is no longer something out of reach for the collective society. He believes that art should be something that you place in your home and appreciate, and it should make you happy when you look at it.

Darren loves displaying at the Art in the park in Pietermaritzburg and has been doing so for many years. He loves the one on one interaction between the art buyer and the artist, he admits that due to his love of sculpture he has acquired a large following of young collectors who have been collecting his moulded characters through the years and are still fascinated by his creations.

This years’ theme for the Art in the Park is “happiness” and Darren and Audrey are hoping that they can bring lots of happiness to the event.

Nashua Art in the Park is celebrating its 52nd anniversary at Alexandra Park, Pietermaritzburg. It is a picturesque venue on the banks of the Umsunduzi River, under a grove of plane trees that obligingly sheds its leaves for a splendorous autumn show. The preparations and planning for the event is extensive, and the transformation from the park as it is everyday, to the wondrous “art gallery under the stars”, contributes in making this event one of South Africa’s top outdoor art-selling exhibitions.

Pietermaritzburg is named as the ‘Garden City’ and Alexandra Park is named after Queen Alexandra, wife of Edward VII. The park’s plush 65 Hectares of colour was established in 1860 and rooted itself as the social activity centre for many decades.

There is a wonderful atmosphere, especially at night, with the lights, fires and music. For more information you can contact Pietermaritzburg Tourism on 033 345-1348. Come and indulge your senses, expand your perceptions and multiply your interpretations.

By Kasia Yoko, courtesy of The Bugle.