Positioned in the Gallery foyer, adjacent to a large window that looks out to Little Malop Street, Hlengiwe Dube has received a great deal of attention from passers-by. Many have ventured into the Gallery to watch her weave colourful telephone wires into beautiful bowls and learn about the process. The response to Hlengiwe and her works has been fantastic and she has been extremely enthusiastic about sharing her skills with visitors to the Gallery. A recent visitor - the owner of a South African foodstore in Geelong - greeted Hlengiwe in her native language and delivered South African delicacies to ward off homesickness!
Melbourne-based artist Lucy Irvine recently joined Hlengiwe at the Gallery and both have been busy learning about their respective materials and techniques. While both weave with 'industrial' materials [Hlengiwe - telephone wire, Lucy - plastic piping and cable ties] they are also influenced by natural forms and patterns, particularly those found in plants. A day at Lucy's studio introduced Hlengiwe to additional influences that have inspired Lucy's practice - including the work of Australian artist Fiona Hall.
Back at Geelong Gallery, Hlengiwe has been extremely generous with her time and has held workshops with student groups from local primary schools. A visit to the Common Goods artist-in-residence has provided the opportunity for schools to extend their studies of conservation, the environment, recycling and other cultures. Hlengiwe has conducted beading and weaving activities and shared stories of life in South Africa with the students. As an extension activity, teachers have been provided with a power point presentation which includes images of South African life and culture. The excitement of working with Hlengiwe and learning new skills will no doubt remain with the students well beyond their experiences at the Gallery.
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