Art Essay on William Kentridge

The political content and the unique techniques of William Kentridge's work have propelled him into being one of South Africa's top artists. Working with what is in essence a very restrictive media, using only charcoal and a touch of blue or red pastel, he has created animations of astounding depth. A theme running through all of his work is his peculiar way of representing South Africa. He does not portray it as the very militant …

…diners sit at ease while the surrounding area is ravaged, torn and burned, an interesting contrast that is well reflected in his style and choice of colours. "My drawings don't start with a 'beautiful mark'. It has to be a mark of something out there in the world. It doesn't have to be an accurate drawing, but it has to stand for an observation, not something that is abstract, like an emotion." - William Kentridge