Harmonia Sacred Geometry, the Pattern of Existence Exhibition

Geometry is widely held to be the universal plan by which all material existence is described. The patterns of proportion, shape, form and numbers are found in the smallest atomic structures and are perpetuated at every level of existence. Most belief systems acknowledge geometry as a plan, blueprint or map through which matter has come into being. This has variously been described as; the thoughts of God; divine utterances; proof of a creator, a master-plan and so on. In its application (from the Greek to measure (metron) the earth (geo)), geometry is often imbued with notions of the divine or the sacred referring to a creator or God or energy force –  Gordon Froud 2018.

Gordon Froud, artist, Senior Lecturer in Sculpture at The University of Johannesburg (UJ) and curator, has been working on an exhibition that investigates various aspects of sacred geometry in the world around us. His large cone virus sculptures (pointed polyhedra) have become iconic in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Stellenbosch and most recently in Richmond in the Eastern Cape; on rooftops, in parks and on the streets. Having featured steel mesh geometric sculptures at Nirox Sculpture Park, Hermanus FynArts festivals, Boschendal and Almenkerk wine estates, here, Froud brings his research into focus for a monumental mid-career show at the Standard Bank Gallery in Johannesburg.

This exhibition, however, extends beyond these iconic sculptural works and includes drawing, printmaking, digital imaging, embossing and even animation. Froud finds sacred geometry in the landscape, the cityscape, in the human form and spirit, reinforcing the extent to which geometry is inherent in both our corporeal existence and the patterns of the universe. Froud’s exploration of the spiritual is not partisan (as he does not ascribe to a particular belief system) but explores sacred geometry across many belief systems from ancient Egypt, the Maya, Judeo-Christianity and Islam, to contemporary belief in aliens; the inter-dimensionality of beings; the authenticity of crop circles and so forth.

This extensive body of work, of over 100 pieces, ranges from small-scale crystal glass works to a monumental 6.5m high polyhedron made from 18 giant road cones – manufactured and sponsored by Sinvac Plastics in Pretoria. An extensive catalogue will be published, contextualising Froud’s 35 year career. The catalogue includes interviews, academic articles and an in-depth chapter by Froud on the work for this exhibition.

The Standard Bank Gallery – located on the corner of Simmonds and Frederick streets in central Johannesburg – offers free, safe undercover parking on the corner of Harrison and Frederick streets. Gallery hours: Mondays to Fridays from 8:00am to 4:30pm, and Saturdays from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Entrance to the exhibition is free.

The Standard Bank Gallery will be open on First Thursday evenings during the exhibition. A series of walkabouts will also be held during the exhibition.  For further info please contact 011 631 4467.

Online links:

www.standardbank.com/SacredGeometry

Facebook:  @StandardBankArts

Twitter:  @StandardBankArt  #SBGallery