International artist and sculptor, Carmen Clews, is exhibiting an exclusive multimedia art collection in the heart of Cape Town this March.
The ‘Bound to Boundless’ solo exhibition of Clews’ multimedia art and sculpture demonstrates the beauty of vulnerability, communication, trust and deep surrender, with a central theme rooted in the art of ‘Shibari’ - a Japanese rope tying practice.
The collection, on public display from 21 - 28 March at art gallery 6 Spin Street, is an opportunity to view and purchase the limited-edition sculptures, oil and mixed-media paintings, as well as engage with poetry, film and photography.
Carmen Clews said: “Bound to Boundless is an artist exploration that delves into the transformative power of rope work as a spiritual embodied practice, challenging preconceptions.”
“Personally, this collection stems from my love of diverse modalities that invite deep surrender—a recurring theme in my artworks.” Clews is an established sculptor having her work regularly displayed in renowned galleries in South Africa. Her flagship three-meter bronze sculpture ‘The Divine Kiss’ is currently on display in Art the Yard Gallery in Franschhoek.
The emphasis of the artist’s Bound to Boundless exhibition is around Shibari being a meditative and healing practice that offers a path to release old stories and fears that no longer serve us.” The artist was keen to add, “The art form is a much misunderstood practice, and is ultimately an exquisite act of letting go.”
Each creative expression features the tying skills of Bryony Leech, a professional Shibari facilitator, invited by Clews to intricately bind the sculptures. As a ‘self-tyer,’ she revels in the serene and mindful connection forged through the artful dance and dialogue with the rope.
The exhibition opening event is to be held on 20 March at 6pm and will include a poetry performance by Tara Rose, a performance art piece by contemporary dancer Lean Bakker, and rope artist Tapiwa. There will also be workshops taking place throughout the weeklong exhibition by Bryony Leach and well known Shibari facilitator Iris Moon.
Tickets for the opening night event (20 March) are free, but limited due to the intimate nature of the experience and are available on Quicket. There is no charge or ticket needed for the public to enjoy the exhibition from 21 -28 March.
