GUARDIANS

Norman O’Flynn is one of those rare artists who understands the art of appearing to be light hearted while the truth is that he is he is being quite the opposite. His latest exhibition is no exception. Titled Guardians, the paintings feature superheroes like Superman and The Hulk painted with flare and with an abundance of colour, big and dramatic.

Yet, when pushed to explain, this is what he has to say about it: “Everybody needs a hero: Someone who stands for a belief or set of codes; someone who would stand up for you. When we were young, we firmly believed in the hero who never backs down. These figures seemed to be everywhere and could include a grandfather, a comic book hero and even an imaginary friend. As we get older the convictions wan although the desire remains.

With a four year old child, I’m reminded of this innocent belief. That somebody cares. That somebody can protect us. This is an ode to them.” This will be O’Flynn’s seventh solo exhibition since graduating from Michaelis School of Fine Art at UCT in 1992.

Artist: Norman O’Flynn
Title of show: Guardians
Venue: Worldart Gallery, 54 Church Street, Cape Town
Dates: 12 March – 26 March 2012
Hours: Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturday 10am -1pm. Closed on Sundays.