Featuring the works of 22 current South African artists, Boer says the exhibition is a mixture of new and existing works that in some way reflect the theme curator creator/creator curator.

“Through this theme, the exhibition explores the relationship that exists between the creator of an artwork and the curator of an overall exhibition as a joint expression of a paradigm and the evolution thereof - the idea of the creator as curator and curator a creator in a joint effort to convey an idea, a narrative, or a paradigm as the case may be,” says Boer.

She adds that the process of working together with various artists in compiling and exploring the possibilities within an exhibition has intrigued her for years. “So I decided to explore this holistic approach in the compilation of the exhibition by making it the narrative for the exhibition at hand. The ideal is for me is to encapsulate the artists’ very personal creations and thoughts as part of a holistic communique, or story, that is told over a period of time,” Boer explains.

The chosen works don’t only resonate with Boer on a personal level as she has worked in various capacities with all the participating artists over the past 12 years but on curatorial level as well, and allows her to aptly express the concept of the relationship between curator and artist.

“For me, the curator-creator relationship is not just one of admiration of mutual creative responsibilities, but more an actual relationship built on trust that evolves over years of working together in the same industry.”

“The curator selects a work for exhibition and makes decisions about the context within which it will be displayed. This requires sensitivity to the interests and intentions of the artist, yet it has to be displayed in such a way that it is accessible and meaningful to the onlooker and witness alike. It has to capture the attention of the audience through entertainment and engagement and convey the message intended in the context of other works leading to the exploration of experience,” she notes.

Viewers’ attention will be captured, as Boer believes that just as the compelling works resonate with her, they are sure to speak to viewers regarding their personal journeys.

“We are delighted to welcome Lucia to the Absa Gallery. Hosting exhibitions like this with the exciting line up of young artists, many of whom are previous entrants and finalists of the Absa L’Atelier art competition, is part of our commitment to providing platforms for these artists to further showcase and grow their talent. Curator Creator/Creator Curator is an exciting exhibition and one I’m sure the public will enjoy,” says Dr Paul Bayliss, Absa Art and Museum Curator.

Visitors can look forward to works from Mandy Johnston, August de Wet, Anna-Carien Goosen, Hanneke Benade, Dead Bunny Society, Danelle Janse van Rensburg, Gordon Froud, Gerhard Marx, Maja Marx, Gabrielle Goliath, Zwelethu Machepha, Wilhelm Saayman, Collen Maswanganyi, Suzanne Erasmus, Cecile Heystek, Justus van der Hoven, Mmabatho Grace Mokalapa, Christelle van Zyl, Jaco van Schalkwyk, Wessel van Dyk, Artist Proof Studio and Allen Laing – all of whom, Boer says, help her in telling the story of Curator Creator/Creator Curator.

The exhibition opens on Sunday, 4 September and runs until Friday, 23 September at the Absa Gallery in Johannesburg.

For more information, visit www.barclaysafrica.com.