Four internationally recognized artists are set to showcase their latest works at the much-anticipated exhibition, “How Far is Africa”, taking place from February 19–23, 2025, at 18 Loop Street, Cape Town. This exhibition is the culmination of their third joint residency, following successful programs in the United States and Mexico. The artists, Annette Werndl, Guillermo Bublik, Claudia Hassel, and Leonard Gabriel, bring their unique artistic visions together, creating a compelling dialogue about color, form, and human expression.

The four artists have forged a deep creative connection over the years, each bringing a distinct perspective to the group. Their collaborative journey began in 2022 at the Eileen S Kaminsky Family Foundation, Mana Contemporary, Jersey City, and has since flourished through various residencies and exhibitions worldwide.

Annette Werndl, whose career was shaped by an early passion for painting, has developed a painterly style rooted in abstract expressionism. Her works, shaped by years of study with renowned artists like Markus Lüpertz, Jerry Zeniuk, and Hermann Nitsch, are now in high demand in New York and Mexico.

For Guillermo Bublik, art and science are two sides of the same coin. A former physicist, he sees painting as an exploration of the world’s underlying patterns. “To think that something I made may become part of someone’s life tickles me beyond measure,” he reflects, emphasizing the deep connection he forms with his collectors.

Claudia Hassel explores the power of color, shaping geometric and organic forms into dynamic, multidimensional compositions. Her work has been featured in institutions across Germany, China, and the United States. “Color is the most important element in my painting,” she notes, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in her visually compelling worlds.

Leonard Gabriel captures human emotion through evocative body language, a sensibility honed through years of experience in photography, advertising, and art education. His paintings, exhibited from Paris to Madrid to Venice, encapsulate intimate moments that resonate universally.

The “How Far is Africa” exhibition in Cape Town is not just a display of individual talent but a testament to the power of artistic collaboration across continents. With a shared passion for exploration and cultural dialogue, these four artists continue to push boundaries, creating art that inspires and provokes.

The exhibition is presented in collaboration with The Artists Gallery (34 Bree Street, Cape Town) and coincides with the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, adding another compelling fringe event to the city’s vibrant art scene.

Jaret Loggenberg, Managing Director of The Artists Gallery and an accomplished artist herself, expressed her enthusiasm for the residency and exhibition, stating: “We are immensely proud to have facilitated this residency for four remarkable artists, culminating in an exhibition that promises to be a standout moment in Cape Town’s art scene. Showcasing artists from different corners of the world in one space is a truly inspiring opportunity, and I have no doubt that this exhibition will be a highlight for any art lover and art enthusiast.