Farewell Ravi Govender

Ravi Govender 1966 - 2014

Tragically taken from us in a fatal car crash on the 23rd January 2014, Ravi will always remain in our minds as a unique individual. You will be sorely missed dear brother.  

Ravi and UDW – Campus life

Ravi studied at UDW Fine Arts department during the turbulent times of the mid 1980’s. He supported the drives that students were engaged in to highlight the injustices of apartheid. While he was deeply concerned about the political situation at the time, He was aware of the sacrifices that his family was making to put him through university. He therefore, had a very strong sense of commitment to his work as a student. Even though he was focussed on his work, he always had time to help his fellow students and the lecturer’s in whatever way he could. His dedication was an example to many on campus. At a young age he quickly became a mentor to many students. He believed that students should be exposed to more than just the lecture room. As such, he was instrumental in establishing a student organisation – SOFA (Society of Fine Arts). Using this organisation as a vehicle he helped to organise numerous field trips and the most memorable annual trips to the Drakensberg. Ravi endeared himself to everyone that he came into contact with. His calm, thoughtful and considerate demeanour during his student years made it a pleasure to be around him.

After completing his Degree in Fine Arts, he enrolled for the Higher Diploma in Education which he completed in 1988. He started his teaching career in 1989. Ravi has been a life-long student. He never stopped learning and was always questioning and searching for answers. He completed his Masters in Fine Arts and was looking forward to making time to complete his Phd.

Ravi the Painter

Ravi had a natural ability to paint. After mastering subject matter in realism during his student years, he quickly became very prolific in abstract paintings. His focus was on abstract spiritualism. His work as he described it was always a spiritual journey. Using colour and symbols he explored highly spiritual themes. He always noted that his paintings were not complete and was open to exploration and interpretation from the viewer. He was always painting and continued to this day. He created many art works that were sold to finance community projects like temple building projects. His paintings can be found in many collections, including the Durban Art Gallery’s permanent collection. He has held exhibitions in Germany, India, Reunion and South Africa. Currently he was working on a painting that he was going to donate to a school.