The Durban Art Gallery is to host an exhibition of works by Gerard Sekoto titled Gerard Sekoto - from the Paris Studio.

Respected South African artist Gerard Sekoto died in Paris on March 20, 1993.

In 2000, the Department of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology donated the contents of his studio to the Iziko South African National Gallery. This exhibition consists of a small but choice selection of works on paper and a display of memorabilia.

A number of drawings on the exhibition provide fascinating insights into Sekoto’s working methods. One example is the Study for The Donkey Cart dated 1946 which is a study for the oil painting. The sketch captures the essence of the scene in a few, brilliant strokes. A comparison with the final painting shows a number of detailed changes, all of which result in a more taut composition and is evidence of the care and attention Sekoto devoted to the work.

Other similar examples on the exhibition are the Study for Bernard, the artist’s brother asleep dated 1945 and the Study for Two Friends which is a pencil drawing of 1940. Of interest, too, are the illustrations for children¹s stories, unknown previously, and - in stark contrast - the political drawings he made in response to the Sharpeville massacre.

Gerard Sekoto - from the Paris Studio runs at the Durban Art Gallery from August 17 to September 23.