Jake Aikman (1978) was born in London and currently lives and works in Cape Town. He obtained his Masters in Fine Art (specialising in painting) in 2008 from Michaelis School of Fine Art and his Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2005. Aikman has presented numerous solo exhibitions in South Africa and internationally. His work has been presented at the 53rd Venice Biennale, 4th Beijing Biennale and a number of reputable international art fairs.
Aikman's paintings aim to convey his sense of vulnerability and awe in the face of the sea's overwheming scale and delicate mystery. As a keen surfer, he frequently speaks about the sea's 'atavistic' qualities when relating his concerns as a painter. 'The sea always seems to be like a veil, conceiving everything underneath.' - Sean O'Toole