Bryony Clark

After a long and happy career, Bryony Clark has left the building.

Bryony began working at the Tatham Art Gallery in March 1988 in a temporary capacity as a Librarian. After six months she was appointed as a Researcher and in 1992 became the Assistant Director of the Gallery. She was mentored by Lorna Ferguson, but spent most of her time at the Gallery working alongside Brendan Bell who was Manager until 2018. Since then, she has acted as Manager of the Gallery for the bulk of the time until Brendan’s successor was appointed in April this year.

Highlights include moving the Tatham Art Gallery collection from the City Hall to its current home in the Old Supreme Court building; assisting and enabling the development of artists closely associated with the Gallery- like Chickenman Mkhize and Siyabonga Sikosana; the Gallery centenary celebrations; over two hundred diverse exhibitions; assisting Brendan by editing numerous researched publications and the opportunity to help build a highly considered national art collection.

Bryony will be sorely missed.

Cancelled : FOTAG’s Fabulous Picture Show 2022

The Friends of the Tatham Art Gallery have unfortunately had to make the decision to cancel the Fabulous Picture Show this year.

Very few entries were received. The Fabulous Picture Show has had a good run but it has probably now run its course, and so the FOTAG Committee have the challenge of coming up with a new ideas to raise funds for the Gallery.

On behalf of the Friends of the Tatham art Gallery, FOTAG would like to thank all the donors and buyers who have participated with such willingness and enthusiasm to support the Tatham Art Gallery in the past. Your generosity has been very much appreciated!

In fond memory of Brendan Bell

21.09.1953 – 06.07.2022
Manager of the Tatham Art Gallery from 1992 to 2018
Artist, colleague, mentor and friend

Images: Jonathan Burton

Brendan's funeral took place on Saturday 16 July at 11h00 at St Mary's Catholic Church, 80 Jabu Ndlovu St. All welcome.

Read the Eulogy by Dr Louise Hall, Chair of the Tatham Art Gallery Board of Trustees, here

View fullsize

Manager of the Tatham Art Gallery from 1992 to 2018
Artist, colleague, mentor and friend
Images: Jonathan Burton

It feels like a big tree has fallen. Manager, artist, mentor and friend, Brendan was a quiet and considered leader, and for the 27 years that he was at the helm of the Tatham Art Gallery, his calm and thoughtful guidance steered the Gallery through huge socio/political change in our country. His emphasis on professional museum practice and developing the Gallery’s collection of art works to reflect the society around us, has placed the Gallery as one of the best in the country. He made a major contribution to South African Art historical research by publishing a number of important researched catalogues on artists from KwaZulu-Natal. These will remain his legacy. Brendan played an important role in all our lives. He was not only our boss, but a wonderful colleague and a cherished friend. We will miss him enormously.
Tatham Art Gallery Staff


The Tatham Art Gallery Board of Trustees are deeply saddened by Brendan Bell's passing. We extend sincere condolences to Jenny and his family, the Tatham Art Gallery staff and community.

During Brendan's 27-year tenure as Director of the Tatham Art Gallery, he developed 'The Tatham' as it is fondly called, into what is considered by many to be the best Art Museum in the country. Brendan's leadership drew on his astute sensibilities as an artistic practitioner, teacher, curator and art historian. He expanded the Collection to represent the diversity of creative output in the region, selecting works of exceptional quality that reflected an appreciation of the contemporary and contextual Fine Art Field. To quote Professor Ian Calder, "he gifted the museum with his rare dual talents as a sensitive artist-practitioner himself as well as a professional curator. Brendan brought his extraordinary aesthetic insight and visionary belief about conserving and showing the works of contemporary Pietermaritzburg and KZN artists and craftspersons for the enjoyment, creative inspiration and cultural education of our local communities.

Thank you, Brendan. We will miss you and hamba kahle.

Dr Louise Hall
Chair of the Tatham Art Gallery Board of Trustees


Brendan’s high academic standard and integrity within the 'real world' of art and art museums inspired me to emulate similar ideas in the my own work as a musician and concert prompter. As Chairperson of the Friends of the TAG (FOTAG), working alongside him has always felt like an inspiring and productive relationship, as he was responsible for leading the gallery to the forefront of SA museums in terms of transformation and an all inclusive ethos. This was achieved without losing those integral values. I will continue to support that Gallery in every possible way as we all endeavour to continue this legacy for the benefit of all the people of Pietermaritzburg.
Christopher Duigan
Chair of the Friends of the Tatham Art Gallery.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE TATHAM GALLERY MANAGER
Alleyn Diesel

Dear Thulisiwe Mseleku

You have recently been gifted with the extraordinary privilege, and weighty responsibility, of taking over as manager of the Tatham Art Gallery, one of the most respected art galleries in this country. A jewel of excellence at the heart of our city. 

Housed initially in the City Hall, a collection of artworks assembled by Ada Tatham from 1903 onwards, in 1990 was moved across the road to the old Supreme Court Heritage Building, constructed in 1875, and brilliantly altered by local architect Gordon Small.

A priceless collection of world art – perhaps the best in South Africa – French Impressionists, Victorian Art, South African art of those of such calibre as Walter Battiss, J.H.Pierneef, Irma Stern, Maggie Laubser, Diamond Bozas, Andrew Verster, Aiden Walsh, Gerard Bhengu, Kobie Venter, John Muafangejo, Azaria Mbatha, Kudzanai Chiurai, Vulindlela Nyoni, the Magwaza family. 

The museum also houses much excellent sculpture and ceramic work.

This position requires huge shoes to fill the footsteps of previous directors such as Lorraine Raab, Valerie Leigh, Lorna Ferguson, and since 1992, Brendan Bell, who retired in 2018.

At Brendan’s funeral in July his staff paid tribute to his legacy: “His emphasis on professional museum practice and developing the gallery’s collection of art works to reflect the society around us has placed the gallery as one of the best in the country.”

Brendan’s intention was to create conversations between art works across cultures, geographic origin and time – constantly updating in order to navigate the choppy waters of a democratic society. 

Fellow artist Ian Calder said: “Brendan brought his extraordinary aesthetic insight and visionary belief about conserving and showing the works of contemporary Pietermaritzburg and KZN artists and crafts persons for the enjoyment, creative inspiration and cultural education of our local communities.” 

It was Brendan, most ably assisted by senior museum officer Bryony Clark, who for almost 30 years, greatly expanded the outreach of the gallery, mounting regular new exhibitions and openings – joyful, celebratory affairs, drawing crowds of enthusiastic attendees to participate in sharing food, wine and discussion around the art display. 

Other very popular events were frequent Music Revival concerts arranged by Christopher Duigan, often featuring world-renowned musicians to enrich our PMB cultural experience; the weekly Film Club organised by Anton van der Hoven and Jill Arnott introducing internationally-acclaimed films.  

Other valuable activities include Artists’ Forum where artists confer to offer advice and constructive criticism about the work of their colleagues; art classes for young adults, and workshops in conjunction with the Centre for Visual Art at UKZN. And many illustrated talks in the comfortable lecture theatre have introduced audiences to a variety of topics related to appreciating the rich variety of the PMB community – social, cultural and religious.  

Such activities contribute to a sense of community; a safe place providing the space to experiment, and learn from the experience of others, and become acquainted with the heritage of our area.  

Renowned local artists and teachers such as Juliet Armstrong, Jinny Heath, Ian Calder, Louise Hall, Heather Gourley-Conynham, Sue and Henry Davies, Terence King, Clive Sithole, Siyabonga Sikosana, Hussein Salim, Juliette Leeb-du Toit,  Thami Jali, Beauty Sekete, Tsholofelo Moche, Jaap and Shan Jacobs, Mary-Ann Hartley; have willingly offered their support. 

Annually, the Matric-class artworks are showcased, encouraging remarkable young talent to express their excitement, and trepidation, about the world into which they are entering, supported by numerous dedicated educators.

My association with the Tatham stems mainly through many years of being a member of Friends of Tatham Gallery (FOTAG) – a group of volunteers and friends who support the gallery mainly through fund-raising events. And my being involved with one of the highlights in recent times – the annual year-end Fabulous Picture Show – where local artist donate works, and crowds of eager bidders jostle to outbid one another; the money flowing into the coffers helping with new purchases for the gallery.

The Craft Shop, renowned nationwide, has encouraged gifted local crafters to offer high-quality work for sale to an enthusiastic public. And Café Tatham provides yet another space for casual conversation and interaction while enjoying coffee and cake.   

Today, the value of art museums world-wide is regarded as more relevant than ever – recognised as far more than merely a building displaying a collection of paintings and sculpture; but having power to transform how we value and re-shape our lives and societies. Art, especially visual images, has the ability to spotlight society’s weaknesses and viciousness, frequently shocking us out of our complacency in a manner that verbal portrayals of suffering fellow humans are unable to do. Art can stimulate uncomfortable, provocative social comment and dialogue about injustice and censorship, attempting to smother creativity. 

Art also records the story of humankind, endlessly life-enhancing, bearing witness to the eternally restless, creative human spirit searching for beauty, meaning and identity. 

The National Art Gallery, London; the Museum of Modern Art, New York; The Louvre, Paris; the Archeological Museum of Athens; Cairo's new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) opening in November of 2022 – all performing the invaluable function of preserving, displaying and educating us about our potential for lifting the spirit above the material and mundane; celebrating the vitality, energy, creativity, the foundation of all the world’s great civilisations. 

The recent Tatham exhibition “Insurrection-Resurrection” remembering the rampage of theft and destruction of July 2021, painfully records how in a very short period – in this case five days – the beauty and architecture of years can be destroyed. The flames licking perilously close to this exquisite building and its priceless, irreplaceable treasures. Reminders of the fragility of our treasured heritage, and our responsibility to preserve all that enriches our existence. 

You have inherited the complex, controversial past of this city and country, epitomised in the huge companion portraits of Queen Victoria and King Cetshwayo staring down at you as you ascend and descend the main staircase daily – displayed together to suggest our ability to co-exist into the future.

So, Thulisiwe, I wish you all the very best as you stand poised in the footsteps of those inspirational role models who have gone before you, supported by your staff who have learnt from them, on the threshold of your own great journey of discovery – jealously guarding and developing this inheritance belonging to all citizens of this city.   

Sincerely,

Alleyn 

Published in The Witness 16 August 2022.

This Exhibition celebrates women in art works from the Gallery’s permanent collection.
Women’s Tea and Talk in celebration of Women’s Month and explore the W.O.M.A.N Exhibition
Venue: Tatham Art Gallery
Date: Saturday 13 August 2022
Time : 10h00
Dress : Be an art yourself, dress as creative as you can.
Lots of fun activities and lucky draw prizes
Live music by Ma’frika Jazz Band
Guest Speakers: Judy Umraw ( Motivational Speaker and Performing Artist )
Sinegugu Ndlovu( Architect )
Dr. Yuvania Siva Chetty (General Practioner)
Entry is free but RSVP reservations are requested.
Please confirm your attendance with reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za or call 033 3922823

SPECIAL EVENT

FREE LUNCH TIME CONCERT / Insurrection-Resurrection Exhibition

Tatham Art Gallery (Lorna Ferguson Room)
Friday 22 July 2022 from 13h00 to 14h00

Take a break at lunch time (13h00 to 14h00)  on Friday  22 July 2022  and kill two birds with one stone, view the Insurrection – Resurrection Exhibition which has been extended to Thursday 25 August 2022 due to public demand,  and enjoy 1 hour of afro-jazz music performed live by Ma”frika Jazz Band. Ma’frika band’s musical style blends elements of traditional South African music blues, jazz and features of afro pop.

upstairs in the Lorna Ferguson Room of the Tatham Art Gallery.

 Entrance is free

Insurrection/ Resurrection

Images, poetry and cartoons submitted for Insurrection/ Resurrection  will be on display in the Ferguson Room at the Tatham Art Gallery from Saturday 09 July at 10h00 until Thursday 28 July at 17h00.

There will not be an official exhibition opening, but members of the public are invited to view the exhibition of images of the Insurrection of July 2021.

Ongoing submissions will be accepted from the public whilst the exhibition is on display. 

Contact pinky.nkabinde@msunduzi.gov.za or phumlani.ntshangase@msunduzi.gov.za for details on how to participate.

Home Truths: Tsholofelo Moche – Workshop and Walkabout

A closing walkabout by the artist Tsholofelo Moche will take place on Friday 06 May 2022 at 14h00.

Home Truths: Tsholofelo Moche opened on Sunday 27 March 2022 and will be on display until 08 May 2022.

The artist will conduct a three day workshop entitled Objects and Meaning, between 20 and 22 April. In this workshop participants will be encouraged to explore the relationship between objects and existential questions around what it means to be human.

Contact reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za or 033 392 2823 for details.
A closing walkabout by the artist Tsholofelo Moche will take place on Friday 06 May 2022 at 14h00.

WORKSHOPS

Holiday Craft Workshop: “Fancy animals” Animal necklace making
Mothers and children aged 8-14
Facilitator: Mary Ovendale 
Venue: Main Gallery 
Dates: Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 January 2022
Time: 10h00 - 12h30 daily
Cost of workshop: R250 for both Mother and child  (R150 per workshop per mother, R100 per workshop per child)
Enquiries and bookings: pinky.nkabinde@msunduzi.gov.za

Illustrated talk by Alleyn Diesel
Venue: Lecture Theatre 
Date: Saturday 05 February 2022
Time: 10h30
Cost: Free
Entitled The Spiritual Symbolism of Mother and Child, Alleyn Diesel will examine aspects of this recurrent motif in art and mythology reaching back to our human origins.
Numbers are limited, so please RSVP to  reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za to reserve your seat.

Workshop (booking essential)
Material is Metaphor
Venue: Lorna Ferguson Room
Date: 23, 24 and 25 February 2022
Time: 10h00 - 15h00
Cost: R600 for the three day workshop
Jess Bothma and Ernest Ngcobo will conduct a three day workshop to unpack the concept of material as metaphor.
Enquiries and bookings: reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za

Workshop (booking essential) 
Self Writings Workshop by Tsholofelo Moche
Venue: Lorna Ferguson Room
Dates: 20, 21 and 22 April 2022
Time: 09h30
Cost: R600 for the three day workshop
The artist will conduct a three day workshop where participants will be encouraged to engage in the exploration of narratives in specific works of art, build on ideas using object information, think of strategies on how to expand the existing narrative, and develop an art work as a result of this process.
Enquiries and bookings: pinky.nkabinde@msunduzi.gov.za

Activities at the Gallery are all COVID-19 dependent, and we acknowledge that we may need to adjust our planned programme at short notice. 

Pop-up Portraits at Tatham Art Gallery

Due to popular demand, Sakhile Mhlongo will be back as artist-in-residence at the Tatham Art Gallery

between Wednesday 6 April and Friday 8 April 2022 10h00 - 16h00

The artist is creating pop-up portraits of members of the public. You are invited to bring a photograph, or to sit for the artist who will draw or paint your portrait.

Booking is essential. All queries: contact reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za or 033 392 2823 or bryony.clark@msunduzi.gov.za

Remembering

JUTTA FAULDS 28 December 1933 – 12 December 2021

Jutta Hulverscheidt was born in Germany on 28 December 1933. She was an only child. Her creative journey began at a young age as she watched her mother and grandmother stitching and knitting. This became part of her daily life as she joined them in the habit of sewing and knitting whenever they could.

After attending school for ten years (in the 1950s girls in Germany were not encouraged to finish school and consider an academic future), Jutta wanted to attend Art School. Her father did not support this wish, and being an authoritarian, what he said went, and so Jutta took on an apprenticeship at Shell Oil and became an Industrial Chemist. She never resented her Father’s thoughts about Art School and in retrospect felt that it was probably the best thing that could have happened to her career, as a ‘box’ would surely have been waiting for her to be put into. She often said that her scientific training and knowledge was in fact extremely useful in many aspects of her creative life.

After a four year apprenticeship and qualifying as an Industrial Chemist, Jutta went to the United States of America where her Godfather had arranged a job for her in Princeton. It was here that she met Bruce Faulds who was studying towards a PHD. In 1959 they were married in the United States. They returned to Bruce’s home country, South Africa, where Bruce took up a teaching post in Durban. Jutta started working at Darville Waste Water Works, where she remained until 1969, when she joined her husband on a year’s sabbatical in Thunder Bay, in Ontario, Canada. This was followed by a year in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where she joined the Campus Women’s group which was run by lecturers in Architecture. They were all doing creative embroidery. Jutta had been unaware that stitching could be anything more than functional, and so began her trial and error journey of exploring stitching as an art form.

Continue reading →

LIVE CONCERT

SONATAS FOR VIOLIN AND PIANO AT THE TATHAM ART GALLERY
SUN 8 MAY, 11.00.

Two outstanding musicians based in KZN will perform an exciting programme of works for violin and piano from the Romantic Era. Ralitza Macheva (violin), hails from Bulgaria where she garnered many accolades for her brilliant violin playing before relocating to South Africa to take up a post in the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. She is now also leader of the Baroque 2000 orchestra and other Baroque ensembles across the country. She is also sought after as a soloist.

Andrew Warburton (piano) is celebrating the 40th anniversary of his debut performance with orchestra at the age of 18 this year. He has performed with all the South African orchestras a repertoire of 23 concertos, as well as many solo recitals and recitals of chamber music, partnering leading international visitors to South Africa as well as outstanding local musicians. He holds a PhD from UKZN in piano performance. He has also performed for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles.

The two musicians will play three vibrant and virtuosic sonatas by Brahms, Beethoven and Faure. The works are sharply contrasted and contain some of the best music by their respective composers. The Brahms Sonata in D minor Op.108 is a dark, dramatic and brooding work, written late in the composer's life. The thrilling Beethoven Sonata in G, Op 30 no. 3 is youthful, brilliant and in high spirits, containing what can only be described as a gypsy dance finale. The Faure Sonata no.1 in A, Op 13 is the largest of the three works and put the young French composer on the map when it was first performed in 1875. It contains much virtuoso writing for both instruments, contrasted with characteristic soul searching melody. 

Christopher Duigan plays ‘ The Most Popular Piano Classics - Ever!'
Tatham Art Gallery
Sunday 27 February 2022
12h00 (Please note start time due to the exhibition opening at 11h00)
Tickets : R100 - chris@fotag.co.za or SMS Music Revival 083 4174473

LIVE CONCERT
For the month of February at the Tatham Art Gallery, pianist Christopher Duigan bring to us an 'all-time greats' selection of classics! This programme is particularly suitable for those interested in attending a concert for the first time, or young musicians looking for an engaging introduction to the pianistic art!

This lighthearted and fun presentation sees him play a selection of favourites; Mozart’s - Rondo alla turca, the 'Rustle of Spring', Chopin’s - ‘Raindrop' Prelude, Liszt’s dazzling 'La campanella' and ‘Liebestraume', and the evocative 'Claire de lune' by called Debussy, plus many more. The programme is introduced in Duigan's unique and personal style giving the listener insightful and often quite amusing introductions to the stories and people behind the music.

 LIVE CONCERT The Four Chopin Scherzi Christopher Duigan - piano
Sunday 30 January 2022 at 11h00
Tatham Art Gallery Secure parking
Tickets : R100

A limited number of complimentary tickets for students and young pianists are available.

Booking - booking@musicrevival.co.za only or sms 0834174473 (unfortunately no WhatsApp option available at the moment)
Places are limited. COVID-19 Protocols apply.