Three Grade 11 art learners from Wynberg Girls High School have earned a spot in this year’s Irma Stern Exhibition, showcasing their artistry at the Irma Stern Museum in Rosebank.
The exhibition, entitled My Journey with Irma, celebrates the legacy of the iconic South African artist and highlights the creativity of 107 learners across the Western Cape.
The exhibition opened on 24 August and will be on display at the museum for months before moving to the Iziko Anex Gallery to inspire audiences with the next generation of artists. It is a collaborative project between the museum and the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). Commenting on its preparation, arts educator Sarah Ferguson Brown said: “We received a brief from WCED, one that is comprehensive, prompting a very heavy process getting young artists to think, to explore how they relate to Irma Stern’s work.”
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She said it encourages learners to engage with Stern’s legacy and create works that reflect this.
The selected learners, Hannah Bulcraig, Isabelle Varner and Phumelela Tshaka, each submitted A3 linocuts for the exhibition, impressing the panel with their skill and personal interpretations.
About her artwork, Hannah shared her excitement. “My mom, who has painted for as long as I can remember, encouraged me to paint as well, and what inspired my artwork for this exhibition was Stern’s journey. I liked how she travelled and viewed the world around her.”
Isabelle expressed her gratitude for being part of the exhibition: “What an honour to have my work displayed at the Irma Stern. It is far more than I ever expected.”
Phumelela, who submitted a linocut, said: “Irma Stern’s work encouraged me to be fearless in expressing my opinions and identity.”
“It’s important to allow learners to have their own ideas,” Brown said. “I serve as a guide and nurture individualism.”
