Artwork Description
In Public Tranquility, Lisette Forsyth presents a striking figure in motion, carrying a traditional shield and spear across the surface of a nineteenth-century Government Gazette. Painted with characteristic economy and confidence, the young man's posture conveys both strength and determination, while the historical document beneath him adds layers of meaning that extend far beyond the image itself.
The title is drawn directly from the Gazette page, which contains legislation relating to offences against "public tranquillity". Forsyth's placement of the figure against this backdrop invites reflection on power, authority and the ways in which history has been recorded. The work subtly contrasts the formal language of colonial administration with the presence of an individual who seems to move beyond the constraints of the text, reclaiming space within a narrative that once sought to define society through rules and regulations.
As with much of Forsyth's work, the historical document is not merely a surface but an active participant in the storytelling. The aged paper carries its own history, while the contemporary figure introduces a human presence that feels immediate and relevant. The result is a work that bridges past and present, encouraging viewers to consider how identity, memory and history continue to intersect.
Painted in acrylic and ink on an original sheet of Government Gazette and presented in a custom frame, Public Tranquility is a unique artwork that exemplifies Lisette Forsyth's ability to transform archival materials into compelling contemporary narratives. Measuring 35 x 47 cm framed, the work will appeal to collectors drawn to thoughtful South African art rich in history, symbolism and character.
Keywords: assegai,
