Artwork Description
There is a quiet optimism at the heart of 'Family Fishing'. A father and two children walk together carrying a fishing rod, their destination just beyond the edge of the frame. Whether heading towards the shoreline or returning from a day's fishing, the work captures a simple yet meaningful moment of togetherness — one built around shared experience rather than grand occasion.
Painted on an original 1886 Government Gazette, the artwork is layered with subtle narratives. The document itself records the movements of ships through ports around the Cape Colony, including Cape Town, Simon's Town, Mossel Bay and Knysna. Against this backdrop of journeys and destinations, Forsyth introduces a more personal voyage: that of a family moving through life together. The historical records speak of trade, commerce and travel, while the figures bring warmth, memory and human connection to the page.
What makes the work particularly engaging is its universality. The children's eager stride and the relaxed confidence of the adult figure evoke familiar memories of family outings, holidays by the sea and the traditions passed from one generation to the next. Through a few expressive brushstrokes, Forsyth captures not only movement but also the bond between the figures.
Lisette Forsyth is celebrated for her ability to transform historical maps, newspapers and archival documents into contemporary artworks rich with character and storytelling. In Family Fishing, she combines history and everyday life to create a work that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Measuring 35 x 47 cm framed, this unique original artwork will appeal to collectors drawn to South African figurative art, family themes and works that celebrate the beauty found in ordinary moments.
