The space? The pop-up art gallery at the Spade to Blade complex, which recently shown the work of one of the local representatives of the visual arts, Alec Cimera.

The Spade to Blade complex – and I say complex because it is a space of many spaces, which could host many ideas and manifestations in the future – is the brainchild of master chef, Gary Thomas.

It is situated across from the Sunday market, and definitely has a touch of magic about it.

However, back to the art gallery. How does one judge art, write a critique of an exhibition such as the immense variety of Alec’s show? How does one, as a colleague, explain the work of one's fellow artist? How does one judge art anyway?

As for myself, I am wary of judging art because judging has something final about it. From the moment you have judged the art, you break the connection and, consequently, the possibility to communicate.

It is the same for a flippant remark such as “this is not art” as the remarks of a learned professor writing a critical essay. Once the judgement has been made, blinkers drop over the eyes and that is the end of the communication and the possibility of learning from the experience.

From my point of view, the way to communicate with art is to approach it in stillness and to open your heart.

Allow the work to speak for itself. All it takes is some quiet time with the work and to give it your attention. Through the work of art we can hear the artist speak. Listen carefully.

A wonderful local talent was on display. Alec, a teacher at the local high school for some 30 years, showed his skill both as a painter and as an artist.

And since his retirement from teaching some two years ago he has been painting with, what to me appears, a vengeance. The whole show had that energy about it.

You did not have to know anything about art to enjoy this show. The works were so varied that it had something for everyone. However, the more you have studied and participated in art the richer, the experience was likely to be.

Knowing the language of art always helps. Viewing an artwork is not unlike reading a book (so you understand why it is advantageous to know the language). It earns your way into the domain, as Alec explained during his passionate speech at the opening of his exhibition.

What does a work of art from Alec, or in fact any work of art, do for us? Among other things it extends our concept of what art can possibly be and that it cannot be contained by any material boundaries. Art exists beyond that. And just as well.

Many of Alec’s paintings show different techniques and, as such, question us on what we think art is. It explains how it can be expressed.

Additionally, the work speaks of a novel approach to story telling and provides a rather special experience when viewing it in stillness.

There were many very special works on display. Some of which spoke strongly, some of which whispered quietly.

In all of the works there was a sense of magic. Alec’s skill and his ability to communicate this feeling of his magic made the pictures successful.

As does the understanding and attitude of the viewer. Remember, it takes two to tango.

Skill is an important aspect of any art making. This part was also well represented.

By the way of a P.S, another two local artists are exhibiting at the Convent Gallery.

Both are accomplished in their craft – Robert Marnika in the field of photography and Brian Reberger in that of drawing.

The level of local talent never ceases to amaze me.

And this fine display of excellent art will delight you as it did me. Make a visit.

Petrus Spronk (art@petrusspronk.com)