Brou de Noix on handmade paper 490 x 370 mm
2005
Collection: Orient Boutique Hotel

Description
It is interesting to note, that I never feel the urge to do architectural depictions in South Africa. My 1988 visit to Greece spawned a complete exhibition dedicated to architecture in Athens and Sifnos. I think ‘feeling safe in your environment’, allows ideas to flourish in a natural way. We no longer move around in the older parts of our cities that are steeped in character. I feel robbed of my sense of belonging, my anchors, and I am only allowed fond memories, of places I frequented in my youth.
In this panorama or view on to ‘Fes’, I decided to omit more than half of the satellite dishes that were visible. (I simply found them too distasteful, as they had no place in the Biblical fragrance that emanates from this ancient city)
My vantage point for ‘Fes’, was the rooftop of a Persian carpet dealer. The top of the building was strewn with newly washed carpets that were drying in the sun. Although I had the luxury of a 360? view from where I stood, it was the tiny slice containing three Cypresses etched against the cloudless sky, which reminded me that besides myself, I was not the only ‘living’ there. Although I knew that Fez was teeming with life, no living soul was visible from above. The trees were guarding the secrets of the city like the Cypresses on guard at a cemetery.

Provenance
2005 Sold The Orient Boutique Hotel