Leanne Olivier
My art practice is immersed in the visual and symbolic storytelling of the liminal spaces of the human experience and often manifests itself through the shapeshifting of the archetypal Feminine. I am interested in the stories that shape our lives as women and how to reclaim ownership of our stories.
In my practice, I include earthly matter such as clay, hematite, bone meal, ash, mica, and charcoal. These serve as metaphorical conduits; a signal to return to the essence: "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Central to my practice is the act of becoming, and yet simultaneously, the unbecoming of self.
Leanne Olivier (born 1986) currently resides in Kalahari, South Africa. Her artworks have received recognition on multiple platforms and art competitions including The South African Portrait Awards 2023, 2021, 2019, and 2017; the Sasol New Signature’s Competition 2014 and 2008; the Thami Mnyele Fine Arts Awards 2018 and 2015 and the overall winner amongst emerging artists, Art Lovers Gallery in 2014. Olivier has exhibited extensively in group and solo shows, as well as participating in Art Fairs and traveling exhibitions both locally and abroad.
Portrait of Philè
Hematite and oil on canvas - 43.3 x 63 inches - 2021
ART
Platinum Award Winner