Main Gallery

Anton Smit - In retrospect

14 March to 11 April 2026

LIFE IN SCULPTURE

Widely revered for his overwhelming heads and monumental African sculpture, evoking themes of suffering, reconciliation, glory and sublimation, his works grace public and private collections countrywide and internationally.  Smit is the embodiment of poetry - a term derived from the Greek poiesis which means making or creating.

The artist states: “This exhibition includes a section of work representing my art career of 50 years, including many works that I exhibited in this gallery over time.  Needless to say, I continue to support the magnificent work done by the Association and will continue to do so for many years to come.”

Art curator Kathleen Thomas remarked “Anton forms his own language through sculpture, the manifestation of his passion for expression and his profound faith.” 

Some observers have noted that this is why so many of his pieces, even the most abstract ones, manage to communicate powerfully and emotionally and why his work is possessed of a raw, earthy power that feels innately African.