Artwork Description
There is a wonderful sense of freedom in Piet. A cyclist pedals confidently across the surface of a nineteenth-century Government Gazette, his focus fixed firmly on the road ahead. Captured from behind, the figure becomes universal rather than specific, inviting viewers to project their own memories of childhood, adventure and the simple joy of movement.
Painted on an original 1860 Government Gazette, the work creates a compelling dialogue between past and present. The official notices, legal announcements and administrative records that once documented everyday life now provide the backdrop for a far more personal story. Forsyth's cyclist seems to move effortlessly across the page, transforming what was once a static historical document into a scene filled with energy and possibility.
As with many of Lisette Forsyth's most engaging works, the subject matter is deceptively simple. Beneath the image lies a broader reflection on journeys, growth and the passage of time. The historical paper serves as a reminder of lives lived long before our own, while the cyclist embodies forward momentum and the optimism of youth. Together they create a narrative that feels both nostalgic and timeless.
Known for her distinctive paintings on historical maps, newspapers and archival documents, Forsyth has developed a highly recognisable visual language that celebrates both history and humanity. Measuring 35 x 47 cm framed, Piet is a unique original artwork that will appeal to collectors drawn to thoughtful storytelling, South African contemporary art and works that evoke a sense of memory and place.
Keywords: bicycle,
