By Nangamso Mabindla
11 February 2005

ARTISTS use their talents to tell stories; and Border Technikon Fine Art Students are telling their stories in an exhibition at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery.

The exhibition, by five fourth-year students, opened on Thursday, February 3 and is expected to close on Thursday, February 17. The work ranges from thought provoking to controversial, says Leon du Preez, the curator.

In the series "Causes of Prostitution" artist Mickey Mtiya gives a visual explanation of the causes of prostitution in East London. "He's taken the local angle; art lovers love it when an artist portraits something they can identify with," says Du Preez.

One of his works, "Sea Shore" exposes an area where prostitution is rife - the Esplanade. Mtiya uses the famous sea-buffer, the Dolos, to depict young girls selling their bodies on the beachfront.

"It's excellent work. It gives us a visual explanation of the pains of prostitution. He's also done some other pieces like 'Mirror Mirror' to explain further what these young girls go through," adds Du Preez.

Mirror-Mirror by Mickey Mtiya

Sandy Thomas, in her series "The Tale of Four Pencils", looks at other issues close to people's hearts, namely murder and environmental degradation. Her piece "Man's Intervention" shows how humans cause the destruction of the environment. "Her work is very powerful. From 'Man's Intervention' to 'I Witnessed a Murder' she has a very bright future," Du Preez says.

Turning to the townships, Loyiso Mbane uses art to explain the effect of gangsterism on communities. In one of his pieces, "Unemployment", he explores how joblessness encourages youngsters to try crime to make a living.

"It's a very powerful piece," says Du Preez. "He used a donkey, a working animal, but in this piece it looks as if it has nothing to do. Unemployment can be a danger to youngsters."

Other works on show at the gallery include "Domestic Sexual Abuse" by Barbara Nassolo-Jjuuko. In this series the artist explores the effects of domestic violence on its victims. "People should really come and witness local talent in action; some of these pieces are brilliant," says Du Preez.