DR. NATHANI LÜNEBURG PRESENTS SOLO EXHIBITION “ILLNESS BECAME HER” AT THE
VIEWING ROOM, ST LORIENT
The Viewing Room at St Lorient Gallery, Pretoria is proud to announce the opening of the solo exhibition “Illness Became Her” by Dr. Nathani Lüneburg, an accomplished artist and an Extraordinary Researcher at North-West University. This profound body of work delves into the personal and complex experience of living with psychiatric and neurological disorders, offering a visceral exploration of mental illness through the mediums of digital painting and photomontage.
“Illness Became Her” is a deeply personal narrative, chronicling Dr. Lüneburg’s ongoing battle with multiple psychiatric conditions, as diagnosed under the DSM-5: Epilepsy/Mood Disorder due to Epilepsy, Bipolar Type 2, Anxiety Disorders due to Epilepsy, and Cognitive Disorder due to Epilepsy. Through this exhibition, Dr. Lüneburg confronts the realities of these disorders, including the challenges posed by society’s misunderstanding and stigmatisation of mental illness.
The exhibition prominently features the character “Natty,” a giraffe that originally symbolised epilepsy in Lüneburg’s work. Over time, Natty evolved to represent not only the auras preceding seizures but also the seizures themselves. This transformation reflects Lüneburg’s journey, capturing the chaotic and multifaceted nature of her conditions. Her art—varying between vivid colour palettes and stark monochromes—embodies the tumultuous interplay of emotions, behaviours, and physiological responses that define her daily life.
Artist’s Statement:
“Illness Became Her” narrates the story of my psychiatric afflictions—what could be termed as brain disorders—that I contend with daily, making life sometimes intolerable. This work is a testament to the internal struggle of living with epilepsy, Bipolar disorder, anxiety, and cognitive dysfunction. Each piece is a reflection of the cerebral dysfunctions that dictate my existence, and through this exhibition, I aim to shed light on the complexities and nuances of mental illness that are often misunderstood and marginalised in society.” – Dr. Nathani Lüneburg
About Dr. Nathani Lüneburg:
Dr. Nathani Lüneburg has established herself as a distinguished figure in both the academic and artistic realms. With over 13 years of teaching experience and a rich history of international exhibitions, her work has garnered recognition and accolades, including the Absa Látelier Award, KKNK Kanna Award, and the Kyknet Fiësta Award. Lüneburg’s artistic oeuvre spans digital stop-frame animation, digital painting, and ceramics, with her films and digital works showcased in prestigious venues such as the Dak’Art Biennial in Senegal, the Prague National Gallery, and various cultural institutions across Australia, the USA, and China.
Her academic contributions include publications on alter modernism, trauma, queer sexuality, and the impact of apartheid-era patriarchy on South African film. Currently, Lüneburg’s research focuses on the representation of vulnerable individuals in South African cinema, addressing themes of sex work, the black female monstrous, and child sexual abuse.
Location:
The Viewing Room at St Lorient is located in Pretoria, South Africa. St Lorient is an art gallery and fashion design studio situated in the upmarket area of Brooklyn, Pretoria. The gallery is known for showcasing contemporary South African art, including exhibitions of both established and emerging artists. If you’re planning to visit or need specific directions, it would be best to check with the gallery directly or visit their website for more detailed information.
“Illness Became Her” will be on display at The Viewing Room, St Lorient, from 21 to 28 September. The exhibition is a powerful testament to the resilience and creativity of an artist who transforms personal affliction into profound and compelling art.
Gallery hours: Tuesday / Thursday / Friday 10am – 3pm
Saturday: 9am – 2pm
