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.
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.
Fracture: The Coal Chronicles of South Africa
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.
Men in Mining: Honouring Sacrifice and Embracing Safety
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.
Artist Bio: Gift Dithipi
Gift, born and raised in Potchefstroom, South Africa, is not just an artist; he is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the resilience of the human spirit. Influenced by his uncle’s sketches and the soulful tunes of old-school music, Gift’s journey into the world of art began at a young age, guided by a appreciation for beauty and expression.
Artwork: “Hauling Hope: Women’s Journey in Mining”
In the realm of artistry, Gift’s brush strokes transcend mere canvas and paint; they encapsulate narratives of resilience, empowerment, and societal transformation. As Gift delves into the portrayal of a Caterpillar haul truck navigating the rugged terrain of a coal mine, his art piece becomes more than just a visual spectacle — it becomes a testament to the pivotal role of women in the mining industry.
Artist Bio: Hennie Meyer
Hennie Meyer’s ceramic artistry speaks volumes, conveying his passion and resilience through the transformative medium of clay. Rooted in the creation of multiples, Meyer’s diverse creations include jugs, mugs, vases, and teapots, each meticulously crafted to perfection.
Artwork: “Vessel with Spark Plugs”
Artist Hennie Meyer seamlessly integrates ancient craftsmanship with modern technology in his latest creation, the “Vessel with Sparkplugs.” Crafted from clay, a material steeped in history since ancient times, the vessel represents an intriguing evolution influenced by advancements in refractory sciences
