INFORMATION RE ARTWORKS – HERCULES VILJOEN

1. Etosha Sympathetic Magic (2007)

Permanent installation in Fort Namutoni, Etosha National Park. Space approx. 250 x 230 x 330 cm

Photographic images on coated paper mounted on panels, found objects, historical building fragments, fabric, cotton thread, steel structure, acrylic paint, black light, timer and existing interior space.

Etosha Sympathetic Magic is a site-specific artwork installed in an historical prison cell that forms an integral part of its significance. The work is meant to provide a mystical stimulus to the visitor while it may, at the same time, evoke cultural awareness. The combination of images and objects brings together - on an aesthetic and symbolic level - aspects of conservation, survival and history. The title refers to aspects of rock art, dream and trance, and their symbolic potential to provide an alternative to reality.

2. From /Ae //Gams to Salazie (1996)

Installation at FRAC Reunion Island.

Wood, steel, sound, kudu horns, telephone receivers and text. Approx 200 x 550 x 180 cm. Deals with communication and goodwill. Sound of greeting and wishes for good rain in 15 languages.

3. Hand of Dignity and Hand of Protection (1999)

Leadwood and Mopani.

Installations at FNCC, Windhoek, in collaboration with French artist Jack Beng-Thi, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights. The hands are installed in interaction with rocks, text and other objects.

4. Nesting Clouds (1995)

During production in workshop in Yorkshire Sculpture Park, during Africa ’95. Massive solid carved forms (Oak) suspended on Beech wood structures.

5. Okonguarri Triomfblaar (2003)

Mopani and Leadwood, sound, infrared detectors, CD player powered by sun panel. Approx. 450 x 800 x 400 cm.

Resembles massive Mopani leave that dropped from the sky on a hill with indigenous flora. Constructed on site from materials found in immediate environment. Sound signifies eternity – the sea, rain, birds and insects. Blends with environment to become visible as one approaches on foot. About 2 km from lodge, situated in mountainous area in Northern Namibia (near Khorixas).

6. Sengaparile Pulse (2002)

Wood, drawings on paper, box frames, soil, grass, cloth and sound.

Was installed in National Museum and Gallery, Gaborone, Botswana, in 2002.  Deals with the theme of the shifting nature of interpersonal relationships. The drawings take elements of indigenous Flora as iconography and transform them by merging them with human elements.