GEORGE NEWS - An artist whose work has stamped the correspondence of generations of South Africans lives in Hoekwil, and he's not going to be posted anywhere. Hein Botha has made an indelible mark on our art history through the artwork that he did for the South African Philatelic Services, who commissioned him to produce various series of stamps on different subject matters. Stamp collectors will remember the beautiful and detailed "History of aviation" and "History of steam" series, as well as the Volvo yacht race, to mention but a few.
As with most masters, his work has changed and evolved. His current body of works reflects his fascination with the artwork and metaphysical aspects of our indigenous people. "The San left a legacy of imaginative, layered rock art images that for a long time were not accessible and hard to understand," says Botha.
"I feel that my life, and hopefully my art, is influenced and enriched by my immersion in the art of the San. Their eternally fresh imagery, childlike playfulness and the vast record of their universe has taught me what I like to refer to as 'cosmic clowning'.
"San rock art and stories are often ambiguous, idiosyncratic and layered in symbolism; in essence, characteristics that lie at the root of all innovative artistic expression. The beauty and powerful presence of the marks left by the indigenous people of this land and scars of the passage of geological time form the basis of the inspiration that informs my work.
"Through drawing and painting, I hope to add to the way we look and relate to the world and our place among the stars, and add to the stories told over time within the brief time we spend on our home planet."
Multi-talented artist and photographer Hein Botha has created an artistic oasis in the middle of Hoekwil's indigenous forest. Art objects from all over the world add style to his log home. Photos: Pauline Lourens
Local exhibit
There is a move afoot to bring Botha's artwork from the archives of the South African Post Office Museum for an exhibition in George, to honour him for the dedication that went into researching and creating paintings that reflect the unique beauty of our country's fauna and flora.
It continues to bring immense pleasure to stamp collectors all over the world. Brent Phillips-White, owner of the Prince Albert Gallery, said he was honoured to host Botha's recent exhibition.
Gallery
Botha, who was raised in Cape Town and graduated from the Michaelis School of Fine Art, has created a unique studio in Hoekwil that has a commanding view of the indigenous forest. It is part of the Wilderness and Hoekwil art route and can be visited by appointment.
To find out more about Hein Botha, visit heinzone.co.za.
'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'