PROTEA:
ONE FLOWER. ONE NATION. MANY PERSPECTIVES
Recently, I created a work for a group show centred on the Protea. Each artist is invited to contribute one work focused on this one object.
On the very day I said I would absolutely take part (partake?) in the show, during my daily studio take-Parker-for-a-wee-but-take-the-long-road-past-the-thrift-store-because-you-never-know-whats-waiting-for-you, I found the most beautiful large quilters hoop. As I understand it, a quilter's hoop is deeper than an embroidery hoop.
If you have been around for a while, you know I love working with found objects. From scrap yard metal to vintage rackets. I once framed a work in a wooden pool triangle and recently found another! So, as you can imagine, when I saw this hoop with the potential for another life, all the stars crashed together. Sparkle emojis shot from my eyes, and it was in my studio within 5 minutes. ✨ This find, along with having the most gorgeous flat black linen from Zweighart and a huge haul of local natural wools hoarded from the Cape Town Yarn Fest, made starting this project feel like a gift.
King’s Embrace depicts two kings, lying together, bathed in dramatic light.
Making the work / A sleeping studio Parker / some hoop and thread chaos / A detail capture / the hoop in situ.
Exhibition Overview
The protea is more than South Africa's national flower—it is a symbol of resilience, diversity, beauty and identity. For this exhibition, every participating artist begins with the same creative brief: to explore a single protea through their own unique artistic voice.
Although every artist shares the same subject, no two interpretations will be the same. Through differences in style, medium, colour, composition and technique, this exhibition celebrates the diversity of artistic expression and the many ways we see the world.
Together, these works will form a collective portrait of one of South Africa's most iconic symbols.
The exhibition opens on 6 November 2026
Noordhoek Artpoint, Cape Town
