“My present understanding of making art is that it is the activity of the de-tribalized shaman, renegade-‘priest’, navigating the path of life through the haze and cacophony of the confusion of modern society, to gain a clear view of the stars above; so that the ancient rite of story-telling may continue around the ‘camp-fires’ of the “urban mind” – granting to all, artists and viewers alike, a celebration and mirror of all our unique spirits gifting the earth with an inspiring vision and possibility of pragmatic idealism.”

As an award-winning artist of international merit, Zimbabwean born artist Andre van Zijl’s work has historically been an artistic commentary on socio-political and global culture. In his ancestral and adopted homeland, South Africa, he was a victim himself of the political secret police, which has deeply motivated him to give voice to those seeking a voice. Art to him “is a creative sword for peace.” His work from this era challenged the institutionalized inequities between the privileged and the exploited, structured as a system of government called apartheid. This included other forms of oppressive political power that deny art communication and spiritual growth. Andre’s art was instrumental as a historical voice of progress and change in this tumultuous period and is represented in many important international museums, public and private collections and publications.

“The evolution of my work continues to emphasize the artistic and spiritual unity through all expressions of life. My body of work exhibited on ‘Fair Trade’ explores the systems of thinking, which, both separate us from each other, and unite us to each other. For me, the fair part of Fair Trade comes to focus when the cultural gifts and material resources of indigenous third world communities, which ultimately includes all peoples everywhere, are celebrated as the ultimate beneficiaries of this responsible thinking. This exchange often highlights the individuals who can and should enjoy this growth, thereby allowing commerce to be creative, very personal and rewarding. This approach to conscious commerce generates a necessary new paradigm for hope and balance in our global community, as the first world pays fairly for its purchases, providing an equitable and sustainable scenario for all.”

Andre van Zijl, painter, sculptor, educator, poet and author, mystic cosmic citizen.
Over 30 one-person exhibitions with work in many museums, public and private collections.
Assistant Director of International Museum of World Religion, Monks Without Borders.