North-West University (NWU) Graphic Design lecturer and artist Danelle Heenop will take part in a sensational group art exhibition at the Alliance Française de Pretoria, located at the hub of diplomatic embassies and the Loftus stadium.

The groundbreaking exhibition, Infinite Perspectives, will be on display from 7 November to 6 December, and it explores the relationship between art, memory, identity and human experience. In addition, it brings together the innovative works of four contemporary South African artists: Bevan de Wet, Danelle Heenop, Mark Modimola and Lisa Younger.

Danelle spoke about her participation in the exhibition, emphasising that she finds value in being given an opportunity to learn from other artists.

“Being able to partake in this exhibition encourages me to make art and work towards a goal, and within that there is growth, sometimes failures and lessons learnt. It is always a privilege, and I am often humbled by the work of other artists around me.”

Each artist offers a unique lens on the world, inviting viewers to explore layers of self, nature and the surreal through diverse artistic practices.

“All artists bring their own unique perspective to any given topic, but we share similar concerns and often grapple with similar issues. We are all trying to express something, or work through something, ultimately creating artefacts that share this perspective with the viewers,” she says.

Birth of artworks

Inspired by her recent hike in Hermanus, Danelle created two pieces of art, “toxic, yet beautiful” and “as it should be,” which are meant to be viewed as a pair and a contrast. These artworks are among those that will be displayed at the exhibition.

“The artworks are based on an experience I had recently while hiking in Hermanus. I did a similar hike in that particular area when I was younger, and the views and untouched nature were just unrealistically beautiful – a masterpiece in itself. This year when I did the hike I was quite upset to find a lot of rubbish on the route, most of it blown to land from the ocean and the majority with foreign labels,” she says.

According to Danelle, "as you should" depicts unspoiled nature, such as a bird building a nest, which is a natural act in a natural setting, whereas "toxic, yet beautiful" depicts a toxic, over-polluted environment.

She declares that her art is an expression of her emotions, thoughts and curiosity and it interacts with nature and natural structures.

“I am fascinated by the beauty that is in front of us – be it visible to the human eye or under a microscope. I also love experimentation and learning about the limits of materials. So often my artworks take me on an interesting journey.”

By combining materials like clay, resin and plaster, her work transforms everyday subjects into captivating tactile experiences that encourage playful engagement.

Second Image: Established artist Danelle Heenop, who is a Graphic Design lecturer at the North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus, is delighted to take part in the Infinite Perspective group art exhibition.

Additional illustrations that will be showcased at the art exhibition.

 

Additional illustrations that will be showcased at the art exhibition.

“toxic, yet beautiful” portrays a toxic environment.