Simon Venter is a self-taught artist who has been creating art for the past nine years. He combines Christian symbols with different artistic styles to unpack themes like identity, spirituality, and modern life. Simon has gained recognition in the art industry, receiving awards and honours such as the Sasol New Signatures in 2023 and 2024, the Sanlam Portrait Award in 2021, and the Nando’s Creative Exchange in 2022.
His latest exhibition, titled “Mythologies of Time“, he makes us think about how history and technology influence the way we see the world. Simon questions the stories we tell ourselves about progress and innovation.
He uses a mix of AI-generated images and his own detailed hand-drawn techniques to look at the role of artificial intelligence in art. Simon believes that while AI can create images, it cannot replicate human creativity.
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A key feature of Simons work is the arch motif, which symbolizes both a pathway and a break. This symbol represents the struggle between what lasts and what changes, as well as the differences between human thought and machine processes. Simon also draws inspiration from the idea of memento mori, which reminds us that life is temporary. He emphasizes the importance of real experiences, historical connections, and deep reflection in art.
As technology becomes more involved in creative fields,”Mythologies of Time” challenges us to think critically about its role in art. The exhibition aims for us to reconsider the stories we create about technology and ourselves in this fast-changing world.
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This exhibition sparks a conversation about tradition in an age of rapid technological growth. By blending mythology, art history, and digital elements, “Mythologies of Time” emphasizes the lasting power of human creativity, even as we move further into a digital future.
