Art Scene: Lionel Smit

I love paintings of the human figure and South African artist Lionel Smit clearly knows what he is doing in making art in which the figured leap off the canvas! These pieces really drew my attention because they feel so close to a photographic image of the subjects, yet they are clearly oil on canvas. I initially thought these paintings are small to medium in size, but was blown away when I realized just how large they are. I think the size adds to the impact they leave on the viewer allowing them to see more details while remaining in awe of the piece in its totality.

{Photos: Creative African Network, Art, Lionel Smit, UCA Gallery}