Artist Bio: Nisty Chatha
Nisty Chatha is an artist whose work explores the concept of collective identity and the interconnectedness of human beings. His art delves into the idea that when people work together as a collective, they can make the world a better place.
In his paintings, Nisty often depicts multiple figures within a single body, representing the idea that we are not singular entities but rather part of a larger collective. These figures are on a journey to elevate themselves financially, physically, and emotionally, hiking towards the highest part of the body, the mind, which represents validation and acceptance.
Artwork: Future’s Gaze
Picture this: In Africa’s heart, a young boy, VR headset in place, looks ahead into what might be the future. But there’s more to this image than just tech. It’s a nod to Africa’s treasure trove of resources.
While these elements power global tech, they come from a continent that’s still grappling with economic challenges.
The candle in the boy’s hand? It’s a throwback to the traditional mining methods, contrasting beautifully with the futuristic VR headset.
Artist Bio: Jo Roets
Capetonian Jo Roets is a distinguished sculptor, painter, and mould maker whose passion for art has been a lifelong journey. Her unique ‘light relief sculptures’ are crafted from self-drying natural stone clay, pushed to its limits to create delicate bass relief artworks. Using unconventional tools, Jo intricately scores the clay, allowing it to warp naturally, adding a unique touch to each piece.
Artwork: Stratigraphy Of Humankind
South Africa’s rich tapestry of mining history is intricately woven with tales of prosperity, trade, and resilience. At the heart of this legacy lies the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe, situated at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers. Flourishing between the 11th and 13th centuries, Mapungubwe stood as the most complex society in southern Africa.
Artist Bio: William Onker
Born in 1977 in the Western Cape, Onker’s artistic talent was evident from a young age. Educated in Kraaifontein, he garnered every diploma during his school years. In his early 20s, his interest in the acrylic medium was ignited, leading to commissions from the surrounding community. His first official exhibition was held at the Retreat Library around 14 years ago, and his reputation grew exponentially, especially on social media platforms.
He later transitioned to oils as his preferred medium. Today, he collaborates closely with The Cape Gallery. His artworks grace walls across international borders, including the USA, UK, Germany, Australia, and France. Most of his pieces are commissioned, showcasing his expertise, especially in landscape art.
Artwork: River’s Daughters of Manono – A Testament to Resilience and Hope
In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Manono region, where the tantalum-rich earth whispers tales of both hardship and hope, a poignant story unfolds. It’s the story of the River’s Daughters of Manono, three young girls whose lives are intricately woven into the fabric of the local tantalum mining industry. This narrative, captured in the evocative artwork River’s Daughters of Manono, is a testament to resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of the human soul.
Artist Bio: Riaan van Zyl
Riaan van Zyl, a visionary artist born in 1976, transcends the traditional boundaries of art, blending classical techniques with a modern, alchemical approach. Describing himself as more of an alchemist than an artist, van Zyl’s work is a fascinating exploration of movement and time, captured through unconventional media.
After completing his studies in Contemporary Fine Arts at UNISA and earning his Bachelor’s degree in 2000, van Zyl embarked on a professional art career that has seen him curate numerous exhibitions and showcase his work in galleries worldwide.
Artwork: Fracture – The Coal Chronicles of South Africa (Sold)
In the heart of South Africa’s Highveld, the coal mines unearth minerals as well as stories. These tales, rich in heritage and complexity, are vividly brought to life in Riaan van Zyl’s charcoal artwork, “Fracture.” This piece, a masterful blend of shadow and light, captures the essence of the coal mining industry that is a cornerstone of progress, the heart of electricity generation and manufacture and a subject of environmental and social discourse.
Artist Bio: Nkosinathi Kandeni
Born in the picturesque landscapes of the Eastern Cape, Nkosinathi Kandeni is an artist whose journey is as captivating as his creations. With an innate talent for painting and drawing, Nkosinathi’s passion for art was evident from a young age. Although life led him to work after completing his schooling, his dedication to the arts never wavered. He immersed himself in art literature, drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Guillermo Fresquet and Jose M Parramon, as well as various English watercolourists. Their influence solidified his desire to embrace art as his life’s calling.
Artwork: Men in Mining – Honouring Sacrifice and Embracing Safety (Sold)
In the harsh underground and surface mining terrains where men delve into the earth’s crust, lies a story of sacrifice, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of progress. “Men in Mining” is a portrayal of the miners who risk their lives daily in an attempt to provide for their families. This artwork acknowledges their courage and the role they play in sustaining their communities.
