Erik Laubscher
Sononder (Sunset), April 27th 1994
About this Item
signed and dated '94; inscribed with the title and 'Over Table on the Evening of the First Democratic Election 27 April 1994' on a plaque adhered to the frame; 'signed, inscribed with the title in English and Afrikaans and '6 Cheviot Place, Green Point 8005' on the reverse; inscribed with the artist's name, the title in English and Afrikaans on a Michael Stevenson label adhered to the reverse
Provenance
Acquired from the artist by the current owner in 1994.
Notes
Accompanied by the 1994 overview exhibition catalogue on Erik Laubscher, exhibited and published by the Stellenbosch University, along with a handwritten note signed by the artist.
27 April 1994, the eve of the first democratic election in South Africa, and the moment that would forever change the history of South Africa. This magnificent depiction of the sun setting seems to embody the outpouring of joy that prevailed on that occasion with Nelson Mandela's speech ringing out: "As a new dawn ushered in this day, the 27th of April 1994, few of us could suppress the welling of emotion, as we were reminded of the terrible past from which we come as a nation; the great possibilities that we now have; and the bright future that beckons us. And so, we assemble here today, and in other parts of the country, to mark a historic day in the life of our nation. Wherever South Africans are across the globe, our hearts beat as one, as we renew our common loyalty to our country and our commitment to its future."
We can imagine the Laubschers watching the sun setting over the sea from their home in Green Point that evening. Reminiscent of Emil Nolde, the dramatic combination of a crimson sky, purple horizon and cumulous clouds seem entirely appropriate, signifying the end of an era and indeed the promise of a brighter future for all South Africans.
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