Using his most favoured medium of jelutong wood, Schütz created exceptionally fine carvings which explore themes of violence, myth, religion and spirituality. Madonnas, saints and religious artefacts depicting the female figure are iconic symbols that influenced his work. Schütz said of his work: “I take pleasure in the physical side of sculpture and like to honour the old methods of craftsmanship with contemporary manipulations, allowing the work to evolve beyond the original concept.”

As senior lecturer in the Wits Fine Art Department for close to 20 years, Schütz had a long association with Wits University. This exhibition is a focused reflection on Schütz’s time spent at Wits University and his deep and sustained interest in WAM’s extraordinary African art collection. References from traditional African artwork, particularly beadwork and Zulu cultural practices can be seen in many of his sculptures.  Schütz’s work questions images of representation and identity across cultures making them very relevant to contemporary South African life. 

The exhibition was made possible through the support of Standard Bank, Hansmerensky Foundation, Charles and Lilian Lloys Ellis, Business and Arts South Africa,  Peter and Heidi Kurth, Sasha Fabris, Neil Dundas and Goodman Gallery.

Various talks, events and education programmes will take place during the exhibition and will provide insight into Schütz’s artworks and working process. In addition to this there is also the opportunity to book guided tours and school tours. Please contact the museum for further information. 

Peter Schütz: An Eye on the World, run from Tuesday, 9 June to until 16 August 2015 at the Wits Art Museum (WAM). WAM is open Wednesdays to Sundays from 10:00 to 16:00.

For more information on the Wits Art Museum, visit their website. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook.