Artist CV

(b 1964ZA. Lives and works in Cape Town)

Mark Rautenbach’s interdisciplinary practice involves knitting, public performance and craft-like studio work. He has alternately used the names of Mark Splendid and Mark Maria, and regularly returns to materials such as repurposed thread, paper and yarn. For Rautenbach, the practice of knitting by hand sits outside of current economic rationale, expressing something that the pace of contemporary life and its functions cannot. “It takes a lot of time, placing me in a liminal space,” he says. “Knitting expresses a deep care, a deep concern for a willingness or commitment to sit with things even when they are uncomfortable.” Rautenbach believes these kinds of time-consuming activities are essential and necessary aspects of being.”

2021

In conversation with colour symphony, Rupert Museum, Jan Rupert Art Centre,  Graaff-Reinet

Solo: world worlding, open 24 Hrs in partnership with Ebony/Curated,  Cape Town 

2020

[U]ntelling [S]tories

Residency and public collaboration

Distancio/Tranås, Distancio,  Jönköping 

2019

Underpinnings, Ebony/curated, Franschhoek 

2018

How Long Can I Hold Your Attention For?/ How Much Presence Can I Give You?, performance

Jewellery As A Social Object, The Contemporary Jewellery Forum, Seminar and Exhibition, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 

2019

A Splendid Summer Send-off, 40 Years 40 Plus Artists, Irma Stern Museum, University of Cape Town, Cape Town

Textile, curated by Amy Pike for Dyman Gallery, Stellenbosch 

2018

Forward?Forward!Forward..., performance and sculptures, University of Stellenbosch Museum, Stellenbosch 

1987

BA Fine Art, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg