dids world

Vintage Car Painting

2012-01-26T13:20:00.001+02:00

This is the first painting 'n completed for 2012. I always test the success of a painting according to the feeling is evokes, and this one makes my heart sing. I love it :)

Studio Photos

2012-01-22T11:44:00.004+02:00

I want to share with you the miracle transformation of an old garage turned into (my favourite place in the world) an art studio.

What started out as an old garage at the bottom of our property is now a fully functioning art studio with a small kitchen and bathroom.

What more can any artist ask for?

The sad before

The finished studio with dogs :)

Looking out from the inside

Stork Tea Mobile - Mie Arts and Crafts

2012-01-22T10:48:00.003+02:00

Yesterday we had a stork tea at my studio for my sister Lize. Just in time to, she went into labour yesterday evening - 2 weeks early! Phew, close call..

We had such a lovely time. My studio is the ideal venue for all our family functions, it takes a bit of time clearing out all the arty bits laying around but it is a great space to entertain.

I ordered a mobile kit from my wonderfully creative friend, Wilmarie Viljoen (Mie Arts and Crafts) and everyone participated, sewing on buttons and hanging their miniature creatures on the mobile.

It was a fun, interactive morning with a lot of laughter and yummy eats.

My lovely mother and twin sisters, Lize in front, and Ilze

Before the guests arrive

Friends completing the mobile

The completed mobile. Lize absolutely adores her special gift.

Thanks Wilmarie :)

First oil/collage painting of 2012

2012-01-18T21:47:00.003+02:00

After a long summer holiday I am ready to get going.

School started today in South Africa and my son had his first day in High School.

This is the planning stage of a new painting/collage. It feels awesome to start the creative process again.

My regular art class also starts tomorrow. I realy missed my students.

Kamers vol Geskenke 2011 - Irene

2011-11-24T14:54:00.002+02:00

Kamers vol Geskenke (Rooms full of Gifts) starts next week Tuesday in Irene. This is one of the most popular designer exhibitions of the year.

You will find exquisite handmade decor and gifts. All products are also proudly South African.

I am very excited to take part this time. You can find my "dids" felt products at Eau-la-la's stand.

Katvoet Gallery - Vintage Teacup Class

2011-11-22T08:12:00.003+02:00

On Saturday I hosted another Vintage Teacup Class at Katvoet Gallery.

I love doing these classes. We always have a lot of fun and I meet such lovely ladies.

Well done ladies, love your work!

heART In The Garden - 2011

2011-11-21T10:38:00.002+02:00

I am delivering stock today for this year's heART in the Garden.

It is an event not to be missed. This year will be the 6th heART and promises to be just as creative and exciting as previous years.

It starts this Friday, 25 November until Sunday 27 November.

Can't wait!

Cupcakes+Cowboys - vintage blocks

2011-11-13T21:14:00.003+02:00

A picture from Cupcakes+Cowboys (a lovely baby decor shop on CapeTown) of my vintage blocks. I think they look lovely against the blue and white stripe cotton fabric.

The shop has a range of blocks available

VroueKeur - Article Eau-la-la

2011-11-10T15:00:00.003+02:00

In the latest issue of "VroueKeur" (a lifestyle magazine in South Africa) there is a lovely article on Eau-la-la - a shop selling my felt goodies.

They were so kind as to include my zippy bags and handbag. Yeah!

Africa - Tote handbag

2011-11-04T08:17:00.003+02:00

Just a quick peek into the making of one of my tote bags.

Choosing the designs and colours take up most of the time.

After putting the colours and images together they are cut out and sewn onto the base of heavy industrial felt.

The lining is cut and the bag is put together, including the handles and trim.

There you have it, a finished one of a kind bag.

dids - tags

2011-10-31T13:37:00.002+02:00

After months of planning to have labels/tags printed for my felt products (just because I was either to busy,lazy, forgot about it....) they are finally printed and starting to make their appearance on my goodies. I just looove it! It gives my humble creations a feeling of importance and professionalism.

Look out for my "dids" label.

Vintage Design Fair

2011-10-31T13:23:00.002+02:00

This coming weekend is the first Vintage Design Fair in Hatfield Pretoria.

It is the brainchild of 2 sisters wanting to create a platform for local designers.

It promises to be a great event with live music on Friday 4 November, good food and designer goods. The ideal venue for early Christmas shopping.

My range of "dids" felt products will also be available.

You can find more details on their facebook page.

Tutorial - Vintage Blocks

2011-10-21T08:49:00.004+02:00

I recently sent an order of Vintage Blocks to a lovely children's decor shop in Cape Town called Cupcakes and Cowboys.

Here are some photos showing the steps in making the blocks.

Use your imagination and create a set for yourself, friends and family.

A sample of a complete set.

I use meranti wood, which is a good quality hard wood. My have my local wood merchant cut lengths of 1.2m x 5cmx5cm
The first step is to paint the entire length of wood with a coat of white acrylic paint. Wait for it to dry and then cover with strips fof different coloured pattern paper. I use a solution of wood glue, diluted with water. Make use of scrapbook paper and wrapping paper. Another good idea is to buy a small piece of cotton fabric you love and have colour copies made.
After you have covered the length of wood, cut them into square blocks.

In the photo above you can see wood thats been covered with paper and then cut into blocks.

Now you have blocks with 4 sides covered in pattern paper and 2 sides still in raw wood finish.
Your next task is to paint the exposed wood with a layer of white acrylic paint. This will seal the wood and give a non porous surface for the glue to adhere to.

Print the images you want to use slightly larger than the blocks. This way you won't have a problem with pictures being crooked or not fitting.

After the layer of white paint has dried you will find the surface feels rough. Give the painted sides of the blocks a quick sand with a fine grid sanding paper to smooth the surface.

Use your diluted wood glue to adhere the images. Make sure to rub out any airbubbles once the image is stuck on the block.

After the glue has dried the hard work starts. Use sanding paper to sand all around the blocks, exposing some of the wood and giving it that vintage look. Make sure to also round the edges of the blocks. Hold the sanding paper at an angle to the edge of the block, this ensures that you only sand on the edge and not damage the paper.

Clean of any dust from your blocks and use a sealer to protect them. Use a good quality water based sealer that won't yellow with age.

There you have it. A simple way of creating a stunning addition to your child's room.

Mosaic Class

2011-10-19T19:01:00.002+02:00

Last Saturday I had a group of ladies at my studio for a mosaic class. We had such a lovely time. It was especially good to have my little sister at a class :)

Everyone hard at work

With my sister Ilze.

Ilze busy with the dirty business of grouting.

Even Suzie gave her stamp of approval.

Felt - Africa range

2011-09-30T08:23:00.003+02:00

More items in my Africa range. They are being delivered to the shop at Blos Restaurant today.

Felt Tote bags

2011-09-24T17:04:00.003+02:00

More handbags in my spring range. I think the dark wood goed well with the charchoal felt.

These bags are available from Fient Lifestyle Gallery at Duncan Yard, Pretoria.

Each handbag is branded with my Dids logo at the back.

Shweshwe inspired notebooks

2011-09-16T12:53:00.003+02:00

Last year I made some Nelson Mandela paper collages for an exhibition. I have one left which is keeping me company in my studio.

After rummaging around for fabric I came across small pieces of shweshwe left over from the collage project. Shweshwe = used by traditional African women to make dresses).

I combined it with iconic South African images on my notebook covers

The Protea (our national flower) and the magestic Kudu (large antelope)

My inspiration - Nelson Mandela (fondly called Madiba)

New Felt Tote bags

2011-09-13T10:09:00.002+02:00

A new handbag (which has already found a new owner) with an old time vintage feel. I am busy exploring the use of wooden handles on my bags. Today is experimentation day...

Painted Furniture

2011-09-10T16:49:00.005+02:00

Before

The painted furniture

I have not painted furniture in a long time. Last week a friend asked if I would be interested to give some old furniture a face lift.

I must admit, I wasn't to keen as it is a whole lot of hard work. First the sanding then the priming then the painting, staining and varnishing Sigh! We decided to give it an old French Vintage look.

In the end it is always so worth the effort. I think her old dressing table and side table came out beautifully, but most important, my client loves it :)

Felt Pincushions - Roses

2011-09-06T12:10:00.003+02:00

More pincushions. I love them. They are so colourfull and sure to brighten up any sewing session. Available from me or from Fient Lifestyle Gallery at Duncan Yard.

Felt Pincushions

2011-09-05T09:47:00.002+02:00

A new item to my Blue Bird felt range. I love the vintage feel of these old fashioned pincushions.

A great gift - not just for grandma or your favourite aunt :)

Blos Mark - Pretoria

2011-09-04T17:03:00.002+02:00

I had a wonderfull day at Blos Market yesterday. This is just the perfect venue for a craft/food/live music/chill out zone.

The next date will be a night market on the 5th of Novemver from 17hoo - 22hoo. You will find all the usuals there plus some old movies will be showing on a big screen in the garden. Sure to be a lot of fun.

A great place to bring the kids and just chill under the trees.

The pinata is always a favourite with the kids and their moms :)

What a pleasure it was listening to Hoot 'n Anny. They are a country folk band from Pretoria. Their music took me way back to my student days... aah the good old days.

My range of Dids - Felt Creations. Happy to report that a lot of stock found happy homes to go to.

My daughter Lana had a great day out under the trees. Must be all the cake, hotdogs and home made lemonade :)

Vintage Teacup Paintings

2011-09-02T09:40:00.002+02:00

I never thought of myself as a teacher but since I began with my art classes it became a real passion. I get so much pleasure from my students. I meet wonderfull interesting people. Sometimes students are uncertain of their own potential and needs extra encouragement to realise their own creativity. But in the end everyone is always so super proud of their work!

2 Friends having a fun morning.

This was one of my "vintage teacup" classes. We use paper and oil paints to create unique paintings.

The finished paintings. Amazing - considering not one student is a professional painter!

Well done girls!

Dids - Felt creations - Spring

2011-08-31T06:53:00.002+02:00

I was so inspired being one of the 25 finalists of the Ideas magazine creative competition, not to mention that spring has arrived! that I created a whole range of felt products reflecting the sunny feeling of spring and my happines.

They are available from me, Blos Mark on Saturday or Fient Lifestyle Gallery at Duncan Yard, Pretoria. :)

Felt - Blue Bird range of new felt products

2011-08-25T16:10:00.003+02:00

I love my new Blue Bird range. The colours and simplicity realy appeals to me. Available from Fient Lifestyle Gallery at Duncan Yard, Hatfield Pretoria. Alternatively you can contact me for direct sales.

Mie's Art & Crafts: Just call her Dids!

2011-08-01T17:54:00.002+02:00

A great blog post about my art by Mie. Just click on the link to view the article. Thanks Mie :)

Mie's Art & Crafts: Just call her Dids!: "Deirdre Botha, or better known as Dids in the art world is an amazingly talented lady! She paints in oils, she does collages, which is on..."

More felt handbags - dids

2011-07-15T15:56:00.001+02:00

Some more bags. They are realy growing on me. I am laying awake at night designing the next one and the next one and the next one... :)

Idees - Competition

2011-06-27T13:29:00.003+02:00

Idees (ideas) Magazine is a fantastic South African magazine featuring a variety of local crafts, cookery and livestyle ideas.

Each year they have a "hand created" competition which anyone can enter. They are looking for easy and affordable gift ideas.

I entred one of my felt notebooks and could not believe my luch when they contacted me last week to inform my that my entry was one of the 25 finalists. Yeah!!

This means my book will feature in the September issue of the magazine and hopefully in their gorgeous coffee table book with gift ideas.

Dids - felt handbags

2011-06-27T13:17:00.002+02:00

Some more samples of my handbags. As you can see, I am having a lot of fun with these bags. Each one is individually made by hand, fully lined with cotton fabric and they close with a magnetic clip.

I hope they are going to sell like hot cakes!

Felt Handbag

2011-06-22T16:16:00.003+02:00

My new felt passion involves handbags, handbags of different sizes and shapes. I love the larger "canvas" the bag provides to play with colour and design.

This weekend I am taking my goodies to a new exhibition venue - blos (= blush) market. It is a fantastic outside venue with a fresh food deli, live music, decor etc.

Come and join us.

Will keep you updated with more handbags as they are completed.

4 Vintage Teacups - oil painting

2011-04-25T18:45:00.002+02:00

Another of my teacup paintings. I realy struggled with the background. First it was a bright red, then I changed it to a yellowy, orangey colour. In the end I scraped of all the paint and went with a rather old looking wallpaper. I am happy now : )

Vintage teacup paintings

2011-04-19T07:42:00.003+02:00

4 New paintings. I have boxes and boxes full of paper that I use for my paper doll collages and vintage blocks. These teacups were the perfect subject matter to use all my bits of scrap paper. I cut out the cups, pasted them on canvas and then painted over them with oils. I love the bright colours, they make me smile.

Vintage Rose Collage Paintings

2011-04-01T07:03:00.002+02:00

I had some old stamp and postcard magazines for some years and was looking for some project to use these images. This was the perfect opportunity, an exhibition with the title "wonderfull word". I used old postcards and stamps as a collage background and then painted the roses in oil, using glazed to give it an antique feel.

Get It Magazine article

2011-03-25T06:59:00.002+02:00

Last month I was so lucky to have an article published in a local magazine. The March edition featured al kinds of vintage related products in the Pretoria area. The editor found my vintage blocks on my blog and contacted me for an interview.

I only expected to be mentioned, not to have an entire double page article about me, my studio and classes. Thanks Get It Magazine!

Jou can read the magazine online

Paper Collage class

2011-03-12T17:20:00.006+02:00

We had a fabulous Saturday morning and created some amazing artworks with photos and paper. Here is an idea of what to expect at one of my classes.

The next class is on Saturday 16 April. Contact me to book a place.

Paper Collage Class

2011-03-06T18:06:00.002+02:00

Next Saturday I am giving another paper collage class at my studio. Please contact me to book a place.

Green VW Beetle oil painting

2011-03-06T08:41:00.002+02:00

A new painting for a friend's son who recently became the very proud owner of a 1970 VW Beetle. I hope this painting brings him as much joy as the car itself. :)

New felt products and button rings

2011-02-28T13:04:00.002+02:00

Please contact me for purchasing information. I supply to a few stores in Pretoria and would like to add more retailers.

Zippy Bags

Recycled Paper Note Books

Button Rings

Birdie Magnets

Paper Collage Class

2011-02-10T20:46:00.001+02:00

I am presenting this course on the 23 of Feb. It is going to be a fun morning. Just 3 spaces left so book without delay.

Riverside Studio - Classes

2011-01-21T09:07:00.003+02:00

After much hard work my studio is ready. Here are all the details for those who have been asking about classes. Looking forward to spending many happy creative hours with you.

Paper Collage

2010-12-13T20:14:00.000+02:00

Last 2 paper collages of 2010.

Garden 2

Garden 1

Volkswagen Paintings

2010-12-10T06:45:00.001+02:00

2 New oil paintings for the last exhibition for the year.

Felt and paper collage

2010-11-29T18:04:00.002+02:00

These collages are for Duncan Yard Gallery's December exhibition.

Showers of affection1

Showers of affection2

Dog paintings

2010-11-28T09:45:00.003+02:00

It was a joy to paint these doggies. Hope they find a good home :)

Jersey Cow Paintings

2010-11-24T14:27:00.003+02:00

These two are for the Heart in the Garden exhibition this weekend. It is going to be an awesome exhibition.

Retro Jersey 2

Retro Jersey 1

Chair paintings

2010-11-09T10:29:00.002+02:00

SOLD

3 Small paintings I did for a recent exhibition

Heart in the Garden 2010

2010-10-29T08:23:00.002+02:00

The invite for this year's exhibition. If you like funky, imaginative and different art, this is the place to be. I am again exhibiting this year and look forward to being a part of this amazing experience.

Tierlantynkies

2010-10-05T14:47:00.002+02:00

This is a new and exciting venue, featuring funky and creative goodies, excellent food, live music and entertainment for kids. My stuff will be available from Duncan Yard Gallery who will also be exhibiting.

3 White Magnolias

2010-10-01T17:57:00.002+02:00

These paintings are going to a good friend for her birthday.

Note Books

2010-09-22T10:14:00.002+02:00

A few of the note books I make with my cute vespa girls on.

They are for the Gallery at Duncan Yard

Felt Goodies

2010-09-20T08:32:00.002+02:00

Fridge magnets

Zip bags

Tins with magnets

I am delivering new flowery felty goodies to a shop this morning. It was such fun making them, expecially the round tins with magnets inside. Love them.

Paintings for a boys room

2010-09-17T14:33:00.003+02:00

Some paintings I did for a friend's boys room. I think they are very cute and will surely cheer up his room.

New stuff at a craft market

2010-08-23T08:55:00.002+02:00

I created this grouping of my goodies at a recent craft market. I am realy excited about the paper/stationary range I created.

New Nguni Painting

2010-07-13T12:35:00.002+02:00

This painting was done for a client in Cape Town. They wanted one similar to a previous Nguni I did. We flipped the image and painted it on a larger canvas. It was a joy to do this oil painting after all the paper collages I have been making.

The painting gets shipped next week when it is dry. I realy hope they like it as much as I do,

Sodwana Bay June 2010

2010-07-08T13:34:00.002+02:00

As always we had a wonderfull time at Sodwana. While the rest of the country was gripped in winter cold, we had sunshine and warm weather for 2 whole weeks.

It was heartbreaking coming back to a cold Gauteng. Wish I could have stayed there for another month.

Fun with Felt

2010-06-10T15:27:00.003+02:00

Some fun stuff I have been making with felt.

Felt, button and bead necklace

Felt fridge magnets

I love my button rings. Colourful and fun and I can wear a different one every day.

Mandela Collages

2010-06-08T12:01:00.002+02:00

I created these 4 Mandela collages for an exhibition currently on at the Duncan Yard gallery in Pretoria. The exhibition is all about South Africa and celebrating the soccer world cup about to start here in 3 days.

Madiba is such a recognisable SA icon, I had a lot of fun doing these collages.

The background is covered in a traditional SA fabric called "shwe shwe" that the women use to make dresses.

Vintage Roses

2010-04-29T08:10:00.003+02:00

I haven't done an oil painting in quite a while. It was great getting back to basics again with these roses.

Small Paper Doll Collages

2010-04-22T18:11:00.002+02:00

4 New collages I made for an exhibition at a friends house. I am thinking of bringing out a stationary range with my collages images. Think the colours and designs could work well.

New Studio

2010-04-17T18:32:00.003+02:00

I haven't been updating my blog for a while, but there is a valid reason, in fact an astounding reason. After years of working on my diningroom table and having the house in a terrible mess I am finaly getting my own studio. Yeahhh!

I have been pestering my poor husband for a space of my own and at last he fell for the idea of converting old garages at the bottom of our property into a studio for me. It is taking much longer than we thought as we are not using contractors to do the build, but a local builder and his 2 helpers. The electical and plumbing work we are doing ourselves.

After 8 weeks most of the building work, roof, plumbing and electrical work is done. This coming week the ceilings are going up and painting will begin.

I am counting the sleeps until I can move in!!

The old garages we are converting

Here you can see the veranda and the new studio kitchen

Almost there... The roof is on and all the plastering is finished. Will post a photo of the finished project asap.

Cuddle Bunnies

2010-03-13T07:54:00.002+02:00

I made these bunnies for last weekends home market. They sold realy well. I am very proud of them.

Latest Paper Collages

2010-03-05T16:50:00.004+02:00

Scottie

Spaniel

Beagle
SOLD

These collages are for a friends exhibition at her home. She does a craft, art and food market twice a year. It is always well attended by friends and people form the community.

She has a lovely, spacious home and my collages will make a nice display.

More Paper Collages

2010-02-14T10:13:00.004+02:00

More dollies for Duncan Yard Gallery.

I am happy to say that my paper collages are selling well. In fact, everyone I made so far has sold! It does my artistic heart good to know they are spreading their joyfullness to folks out there.

3d Paper Doll Collage

2010-01-29T10:03:00.003+02:00

SOLD

My next collage for Duncan Yard Gallery. I love the cool colours and the echeverias in the foreground.

New paper doll collage

2010-01-21T16:58:00.003+02:00

A new collage for DuncanYard Gallery. This time I am making "real" paper dolls and using other 3d images on my collages. This is like having play time every day. I love my job!

Sodwana Bay South Africa

2010-01-05T15:26:00.002+02:00

We came back from our annual holiday at Sodwana (our favourite place) last week. What a privelage to have a hot, sunny Christmas every year in such an unspoilt piece of nature.

Christmas day 2009 at Black Rock, north of Sodwana and about 50km from the Mozambique border. Pure paradise!

9 Mile Beach for a day of relaxation. Sigh!

More paper doll paintings for "Heart in the Garden" exhibition

2009-12-02T15:13:00.004+02:00

I am taking part in a joint exhibition with a bunch of very talented artists this coming weekend.

These are 2 of the paintings I created for the exhibition. I love the gentle colours and playfull attitude they have.

SOLD

Bunny Garden
Mixed Media

SOLD
Birdcage
Mixed Media

Clever Little Monkey - give away

2009-11-26T17:47:00.002+02:00

This month Clever Little Monkey is giving away a set of my vintage blocks. They are a South African online shop selling all kinds of kids stuff. Very cute site.

Hello Kitty Collage paintings

2009-11-24T08:01:00.003+02:00

Another fun project. I have always loved Hello Kitty and was looking for an opportunity to use her in some paintings.

Vintage Blocks at Articles and Frames - Brooklyn Mall Pretoria

2009-11-20T21:08:00.002+02:00

Some photos of my Vintage Blocks at Articles and Frames. This is an amazing gallery and gift shop in Brooklyn Mall Pretoria.

My blocks and prints are displayed inside an old retro style kitchen cupboard.

I think they look quite at home there :)

Invitation - Duncan Yard Exhibition

2009-11-12T11:22:00.002+02:00

My four "Paper Doll" paintings sold before the opening. This means I can start making some more - great news!

Paper Doll Paintings

2009-11-10T12:14:00.004+02:00

I made these 4 paintings for an exhibition at Duncan Yard Gallery. The exhibition opens this Friday at 18h00. It is a group exhibition with 20 artists and all artwork sells for R500 or less.

It was so much fun doing the "Vespa Girl" paintings that I stuck to the idea of working with pattern paper. This time I gave it a retro feeling with images from Burda Magazines dating back to 1970.

SOLD

Elle Decoration - South Africa

2009-11-09T11:37:00.001+02:00

I am so proud of my Vintage Blocks. They made it into the October 2009 issue of Elle Decoration - South Africa. Always knew they were destined for great things :)

Unica 2009

2009-11-02T17:05:00.001+02:00

My stand at the 2009 Unica Christmas market.

Unica Christmas Market

2009-10-27T08:16:00.004+02:00

I have been a very bad blogger. I have been so busy making blocks for the 23 Unica Christmas Market that I have not been here in a very long time. The market starts this Friday. Hopefully then my life will be back to normal. I am also exhibiting in an upcoming painting exhibition that starts in 2 weeks time and have not done anything! Will have to get moving.

For those of you in Pretoria, please support the Christmas market, a share of the profits goes to the Unica School for autistic children. It is a wonderful place to do your christmas shopping.

A sample of some of the blocks.

Vespa Alfa Girl paintings

2009-08-17T08:44:00.003+02:00

These are the last of the commission paintings I did for a new restaurant in Johannesburg.

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Vintage Blocks

2009-08-06T15:35:00.002+02:00

A while back I mentioned that I am working on toys for kids.

The one I started with are these Vintage Wooden Blocks.

I am having such a blast making them, it has become quite an obsession looking for the right paper and images to paste on the blocks.

I love the vintage look of the blocks. They are great as stacking toys for kids or just to display somewhere.

More Vespa & Alfa paintings

2009-07-31T16:25:00.004+02:00

Some more paintings that were commissioned.

I am currently busy working on the next order of 5 more for the restaurant.

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Cape Town Pictures

2009-07-31T16:17:00.002+02:00

Some pics from our recent visit to Cape Town. Even though it is cold, wet and windy in winter it is still a stunning place. If you ever get the chance, visit our wonderfull country!!

Our view of Table Mountain every morning (the scene changes constantly sigh!)

Just outside the pretty town of Hout Bay. Even the wind couldn't keep us from the small harbour where you find the freshest fish and chips.

Along the amazing road leading all along the coast to Rooi Els.

More Vespa Girl paintings

2009-07-07T10:01:00.006+02:00

These are the paintings I did for a resturant in Johannesburg. They were so happy with the overall look that they ordered 4 more.

SOLD

Vespa Girl 7
Mixed Media 30x30cm
SOLD

Vespa Girl 6
Mixed Media 30x30cm
SOLD

Vespa Girl 5
Mixed Media 30x30cm
SOLD

Vespa Girl 4

Mixed Media 40x60cm
SOLD

We are leaving for Cape Town tomorrow for a weeks holiday. Even though it is winter and cold and rainy it is still the most beautiful and exciting city to visit.

Vespa Girl Paintings

2009-06-29T08:05:00.004+02:00

Unbelievable how time can fly. Can't believe it has been more than 2 months since I posted some paintings. I have been busy with a new project - educational toys for kids! It has been such fun designing and creating these that I have been neglecting my painting.

Luckly the gallery where I exhibit regularly had a wonderfull theme for June - Italy. With these paintings I went back to my craft background and used colourfull paper, black and white photo copies as well as oil paint to create these cheerfull paintings. I has such a great time creating them! The best part is that they all sold in the first week of exhibition and I have commissions for 8 more! Will post these as soon as they are finished.

Alfa Female
Mixed media on boxed board (40x60cm)
SOLD

Vespa Parking
Mixed media on boxed board (40x60cm)
SOLD

Vespa Girl 1
Mixed media on boxed board (30x30cm)
SOLD

Vespa Girl 2
Mixed media on boxed board (30x30cm)
SOLD

Alfa Male
Mixed media on boxed board (60x60cm)
SOLD

Sodwana Bay and Tembe Elephant Park - South Africa

2009-04-16T20:20:00.002+02:00

In South Africa we have our last school holidays, just before winter arrives, over the easter weekend. As usual we went to Sodwana Bay. I don't think I will ever tire of going there. The surroundings are just so beautifull.

This time we visited Tembe National Elephant Park on Easter Friday which is about 1hours drive from Sodwana. The park is situated on the border with Mozambique and has over 200 magnificent (and huge) elephants. There are also buffalo, lions, leopards and lots of antelope. A Magical Place!

The site we chose to have lunch. Isn't it just great to have lunch in such an unspoilt place?

One of the Tembe elephants. This one came VERY close. Everyone got a real fright with this huge elephant stroling up to our vehicle. In the end he just passed right next to us on his way to another water hole.

On Easter Sunday we drove south on the beach to a small bay for snorkling. The water is so clear you can just sit next to a rock and have your own private aquarium.

Just an idea of how huge the dunes are. They are covered with indiginous trees and shrubs and come right down to the beach.

And of course, the kids love the sea.

Beach Scene Painting

2009-04-01T15:49:00.004+02:00

This was the challenge on the DSFDS blog for the past 2 weeks. I love doing paintings like this. You only need a few basic colours and shapes to create the right feeling for the painting. This week the artists realy did a great job with this beach scene.

Beach Babe
Original oil on board 25x60cm
R500

Orchid Painting

2009-03-30T07:08:00.001+02:00

I love painting orchids.

Orchid 4
Original oil on boxed maxonite 60x35cm
R650

Children Painting

2009-03-27T15:28:00.002+02:00

This is another painting I did of my children. With only one swing for two kids to share there is always one having a good time and another feeling sorry for themself :)

My Turn
Original oil on boxed board 60x40cm
R700

The river swing

2009-03-12T10:56:00.003+02:00

A few months ago I took some photos of my kids playing by the river next to our house. They were the perfect inspiration to do some more paintings of children. Rocky, the Jack Russel follows them where ever they go.

River Swing
Original oil on boxed supawood 60x40cm
R700

Orchid Paintings

2009-03-11T09:06:00.004+02:00

From this coming Saturday I am joining a country art fair that has been going for the past 20 years. It is set on a historical farm just outside the city. There are lots of artists exhibiting and there is a lovely deli market.

These paintings are for Saturday.

Orchid 3
Original oil on board 35x60cm
R550

Orchid 2
Original oil on board 35x60cm
R550

More Mexican paintings

2009-03-04T08:41:00.002+02:00

I delivered my paintings to the gallery yesterday and was amazed by the other artists work. There are such talented people out there! Make an effort to support your local galleries and maybe you will discover some of the hidden talent.

I painted the Virgin de Guadelupe as a final piece for the exhibition. It doesn't have the same brightness as the others but rather a soft and calm presence. Again I added the chihuahuas to carry through the theme.

Guadelupe Virgin
Original oil on board 60x40cm

And then, just for fun I did these 2 Chihuahua "shrines" with tiles, mirrors, gold leaf, foil flowers and roses.

Chihuahua shrine 1
mixed media on board 30x30cm

Chihuahua shrine 2

mixed media on board 30x30cm

Invitation - Mexican exhibition

2009-03-03T13:00:00.003+02:00

To all my friends out there, consider yourself invited! It is going to be a lot of fun. All the shops and restaurants in Duncan Yard are taking part in the Mexican theme with decor and food.

The opening is this Friday 6 March from 15hoo and will run for the rest of the month.

Mexico Paintings

2009-03-02T19:54:00.007+02:00

Last month I took part in a gallery exhibition with an Indian theme. This month the theme is Mexico. I thought it would be quite easy to get inspiration but have to admit it was a real struggle. I didn't want to do the typical Frida Calho paintings that people would expect from an exhibition like this. After much reading and google searching on the subject I decided to use Chihuahuas as my inspiration since they are native to Mexico. They are such cute dogs and it was a lot of fun painting them.

The first painting I did was with Chihuahuas only. I love the red jumper and also added the flowers as a fun element.

3 Chihuahuas
Original oil on board 40x60cm
SOLD

I decided to do a Frida painting after all but also added the chihuahua and flowers just to add another elements to the painting.

Frida & Chihuahua
Original oil on board 60x40cm

Nguni painting

2009-02-19T13:04:00.003+02:00

I got a commission to do another Nguni painting. It has been a while since I last painted cows and it was so much fun doing this one. It is joining 3 of its friends, hope it blends in well.

Nguni 10
Original oil on board 60x60cm
SOLD

Exhibition opening

2009-02-11T12:59:00.002+02:00

The opening of the India exhibition was a great success. Cecily went to a lot of trouble creating a great party with Indian music, food and drinks. Even though it is a small gallery all the people managed to find a spot to chat and experience the diverse paintings on show.

Go and check out the gallery's website.

here I am with Cecily, the gallery owner and fellow artist

It was a lovely evening and the party carried on outside.

Rain

2009-02-05T13:02:00.003+02:00

We have the privelage of staying next to a small river in a big city. Across the river is a hiking trail that follows the water. There is a family of wild geese, fish, a big lizard, a mongoose family and lots of birds living along the river. Usually it is a tranquil place with just a small stream of water flowing past the house.

Yesterday we had an enormous storm with 90mm (35 inches) of rain falling in just 2 hours. Then our river gets scary!! All the water from neighbouring suburbs as well as storm water drains along the road empties into this stream. 10 Years ago all the houses on our side of the river was flooded after a cloudburst. Luckly this was not so bad but it is still scary seeing the water rising and not knowing when it is going to subside.

Today we have a small stream once again :) Never a dull moment living here.

This is what the river usually looks like, peacefull and a great place for the kids to play.

But is can all change in a very short time with the water overflowing the river bank.

Different strokes painting

2009-02-04T17:33:00.003+02:00

My version of the Different Strokes challenge for this week. Go here to see the other artist's paintings.

Last India paintings

2009-02-02T12:44:00.005+02:00

My "india" exhibition paintings are completed. I almost feel sad, it was such fun. I am already thinking about a next theme...

I can't wait to take them to the gallery on Wednesday and see the other artist's paintings. This is a fun gallery and has a "anything goes" attitude. They realy give artists the freedom to explore their creative side to the full.

Will take photos on Friday at the opening and show you what talented artists there are in South Africa.

India 5
Mixed media on boxed masonite 60x90cm

SOLD

India 4
Mixed media on boxed masonite 30x60cm
SOLD

The invitation

More India paintings for Duncan Yard

2009-01-23T17:46:00.003+02:00

These are the next 2 paintings I finished for the February exhibition. I realy am having so much fun with them. The more I play around with shapes and transfers the more ideas I get for future paintings.

India 2
Mixed media on boxed masonite 30x30cm

India 3
Mixed media on boxed masonite 30x60cm

SOLD

India painting for The Gallery at Duncan Yard

2009-01-16T15:13:00.002+02:00

After a month of holidays and getting the kids back to school I have been dying to start my first painting of 2009.

Cecily at The Gallery at Duncan Yard invited me to take part in their group exhibition next month, just the inspiration I was looking for. The theme is "With love from India".

At first I was unsure where to start. I had all these weird and colourfull images in my head but after much thought and consideration I came up with the following painting.

This is going back to my roots as a crafter. I used gold leaf, decoupage and photo transfers as a base and then painted the lotus flowers in oils and aged the whole painting with burnt sienna.

I am very happy with the end result and think it does capture a romantic image of India.

With the creative juices flowing I am planning on doing 6 paintings for the exhibition which starts in 2 weeks!!

India 1
Original oil on board 30x30cm

Sodwana Bay - South Africa

2009-01-02T18:20:00.004+02:00

We spent our Christmas hollidays at Sodwana Bay on the east coast of South Africa. We have been visiting Sodwana for the last 15 years and never tire of the stunning landscape and warm tropical water.

Sodwana is one of the best dive destinations in the world and have regular sightings of whale sharks, leatherback turtles, dolphins and ragged tooth sharks.

Sodwana is one of the last beaches in South Africa where you can drive on the beach with your 4x4. This makes it a unique experience and gives everyone his own piece of beachfront property for the day :)

Here I am praying for a save return before my first microlight flight ever! Can't believe I was so scared, it was one of the most amazing things I have ever done. Just to see what the area looks from the sky after all the years we have been coming here was extremely interesting. It gives it a whole new perspective.

Here you can see the beach with all the cars parked for the day. Sodwana has some of the highest and oldest forest dunes in the world.

This is the lodge where we have a house. The houses are all log timer homes and have to blend in with the environment. We don't have a sea view but look out over an inland lake and on the opposite side are forest dunes. A very special place indeed.

Another photo I took from the microlight showing how secluded and magical the coast is.

Just 50km from Sodwana are many game reserves. On Christmas day we went to Mkuze game reserve. This is a very special place with grassland, mountains and wetlands.

Njala at a water hole.

Wishing everyone a peacefull 2009!

Magnolias

2008-12-12T15:20:00.003+02:00

My bother in law commissioned these paintings for my sister as Christmas presents. I hope she likes them. I loved painting them and the colours came out just as I imagined they would. They are also my last paintings of the year. Tomorrow this time I will be sitting on the beach :)

See you in 2009!

Magnolia 3
original oil on board 60x60cm

Magnolia 4
original oil on board

Boots painting

2008-12-11T15:32:00.004+02:00

I realy enjoyed this week's Different Strokes Challenge. I love painting shoes, so I was quite impressed to find a photo of workboots as the theme for the week.
Sadly this is my last challenge painting for the year as we are going on holiday. I had a great time the past few months doing different paintings every week and being challenged with themes I would not normally consider.

Looking forward to new challenges in 2009!

Boots
original oil on board 30x30cm