Intrigued by materiality, Greyling seeks to explore the wealth of the material he uses. Every creation taking form through investigation and introspection, Greyling views the rock as an altered archaeological artefact that invites contemplation of the inner self but also very subtly introduces the environmental impact that we have.
"Through my sculptures, I explore the relationship between material, memory, and metaphor through a process that involves shaping steel against the surface of rocks. By hammering pieces of steel sheets until they mimic the form of the rock beneath them, I create compositions that balance the real and the imagined. These welded forms, perched impossibly atop their natural counterparts, exist in a liminal space between stability and fragility, weight and illusion. For Imprints of Elsewhere, my sculptural work engages with the exhibition’s exploration of inner and outer landscapes. The rock, both literal and symbolic, becomes a vessel of memory and meaning, drawing from biblical narratives of the rock as a foundation, a place of refuge, and spiritual grounding. The transformation of steel into stone-like forms echoes a deeper inner process of reflection and faith, where the process of imitation becomes a quiet homage to something steadfast and enduring. Using water as an elemental tool, I leave the formed steel pieces exposed to rain, allowing time and nature to oxidize the surface. This process deepens the resemblance to rocks, creating layered textures, colours, and tonal shifts. In this way, my sculptures trace an internal topography—rooted in personal belief, spiritual symbolism, and the tactile experience of making—while simultaneously engaging with the external world of form and material. Each piece stands as a visual meditation on presence, balance, and transformation. " - Henrico Greyling.