News article
  >  News  >  Article

12 July 2018

Architect by day, artist by night

Anton Roodt, well known architect from Roodt Architects in Bloemfontein, also has a remarkable talent for artistry, and was recognised as one of the top artists in the 2017 Phatshoane Henney New Breed Art Competition.

When asked how it was that he started delving in art, he reveals that it all began with an interest in understanding how we interact with the physical environment in terms of space and place. “Art and writing are closely linked to architecture because they all try to describe or imagine how we do this from an intellectual environment or inner world. My inner world is a product of divergent thinking because I find the rigid boundaries between disciplines too constricting. We are over-specialised, myself included. My practice of art actually preceded my interest in architecture.”

In the beginning, Anton experimented with oil, and then he moved on to acrylics. Today he works mainly with watercolour and charcoal, and continues to hone his drawing skills. “I have also become interested in printing and have done a few etches and aquatints with Ben Bothma at the University of the Free State. My work has also benefitted tremendously from the mentoring and teaching I received from Diane Victor.”

The Phatshoane Henney New Breed Art Competition has also contributed to his growth as an artist. Having been judged worthy of being part of the competition’s general exhibition at Oliewenhuis, to him means that others who are respected in the art world, have sanctioned his work. “The importance of the New Breed Art Competition cannot be over-emphasised. It has given local artists the confidence to aspire to the excellence of our best South African artists.” 

Click here to view his online profile and learn more about his work.

Related

  • Recent
  • Popular
  • Tag