The Department of Visual Arts in collaboration with University of Stellenbosch Central Events & Conferencing office is hosting the exhibition by Alexander Godany, a renowned Slovakian artist. The opening function was held on Thursday, 8th February 2024 at the Gallery of the University of Stellenbosch.

This is a two-week exhibition that is intended to create an awareness – arising out of this initial exchange of artistic expression – and perhaps open the way to the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge, and the development of a broader contact between University of Stellenbosch and Slovak Republic.

The Ambassador of Slovak Republic, Vladimir Gracz, initiated the retrospective exhibition of Godany’s work with the hope that the exhibition will lead to future collaboration between the University of Stellenbosch and Slovak Universities.  Slovakia is known for its high standard of education and skills, and particularly its excellence in manufacturing.  At the same time the University of Stellenbosch has an excellent reputation in engineering, medical and scientific courses that could result in mutually beneficial collaboration.

“Godany’s work is unique and thought provoking, it creates an emotional response in the mind of the viewer.  His handling of colour is exceptionally noteworthy, and his subject matter is considered indicative of the extent to which human attributes have drifted away from the overarching influences of nature, a subject that gives call for contemplation”, said Geoffrey Ashmead, Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic.

Godany’s work on display includes his Gammapolis series (2005), Without Homeland 1, 2, 3 (1992, 1996 & 2014), Metamorphosis series (2008), Disillusioned (1991), Changing Landscape (2022), Autumn Ballad (1992), Cross without heads (1996), Prophet (1994), Don Quixote (1990), Nightflight (1996), Changing Landscape (1998 & 1990) and Without Note series (2005).  Prior to this exhibition, the works have been exhibited in numerous countries. This may be the last exhibition in South Africa before resuming further international exposure.

Alexander Godany is now aged 70 and lives in Slovakia, where his work is now admired, after having been considered inappropriate, and suppressed during the occupation of Czechoslovakia.

The public is invited to visit the Gallery of the University of Stellenbosch (GUS) to assess for themselves an example of artistry that has stood the test of different times.

Visit the Gus Gallery for more information about this exhibition:

https://www.gus-gallery.co.za/