The original art Elsabé Viljoen supplied for the cover of The Flight of the Phoenix

Elsabé Viljoen and I have come a long way since we met in our awkward teens. We both love art but she definitely took that love further than I have ever dared. And, when I approached her about the art for The Flight of the Phoenix, she didn’t hesitate to say yes.

Here’s what she had to say:

What kind of art projects do you typically get involved in?
I generally work in New Media and digital installation, but have also involved myself in a variety of community (art) upliftment programmes such as SANParks’ educational outreach and the ReVive community outreach programme. I have also taken part in quite a few group exhibitions at various levels.

What and who has influenced your style the most?
Presently I am influenced by the work of Bill Viola and Tony Oursler. Both of these artists integrate technology and art, creating an alternative ‘reality’ through the use of digital media.

What projects are you currently working on?
Presently I am exploring Afrikaner genealogy and the familial through digital media. I am also moving back into the field of stop motion photography and video by exploring the relationship between the body and parasitism.

Elsabé Viljoen