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Our garden has recently become home to six more remarkable art masterpieces, each crafted by talented up-and-coming artists from South Africa. These sculptures not only enhance the natural beauty of our surroundings but also tell compelling stories that resonate deeply with the human spirit. Let's take a closer look at each of these magnificent creations and the artists behind them.

‘Hanneke’ (Grace and Favour) by Sandro Trapani

Standing proudly at 4.5 meters tall near the dam, 'Hanneke' embodies the harmony between humanity and nature. With roots adorning her head like a crown and water flowing from her hands into the dam, she symbolises environmental preservation and invites us to reflect on our relationship with our ecological surroundings. Sandro Trapani, hailing from Potchefstroom, explores deep themes of heritage and the cyclical nature of human existence through his art.

Sandro Trapani, explores the interplay between behavior and thought in his work, influenced by his research during his master’s degree. Drawing from heritage, ethnography, and memory, Trapani examines how narratives evolve cyclically, often delving into themes of absurdity and obsession inherent in human existence and art. His artistic journey spans over twenty-five years, focusing on the elusive nature of truth and personal heritage, shaped by speculation and the mysteries of ancestry. Through his art, Trapani contemplates how artifacts and relics from ancient histories inspire new narratives, inviting exploration and imagination into the past's unanswered questions.

https://www.instagram.com/sandro.trapani.art/

‘Medusa’ daring you to look her in the eye by Sandro Trapani

Hidden in a grotto within our garden, 'Medusa' captivates with her bronze form and snake-adorned hair. Her presence challenges visitors to confront the complexities of human relationships and the choices we make. The legendary story of Medusa begins with the tragedies she endured in her life, yet her tale is one of rising above the pain and finding strength! Will she, or won’t she turn you to stone when you meet her gaze?

Sandro Trapani's work delves into the enigmatic aspects of life and invites viewers to explore the mysteries within themselves.

‘Leda and the Signet’ by Joyce Carreira

'Leda and the Signet' narrates a tale from Greek mythology, depicting Leda nurturing a young swan, symbolising the journey into the unknown and the bonds between humans and nature. Joyce Carreira's mastery in capturing the human form and her exploration of femininity shine through in this bronze masterpiece.

Joyce Carreira, originally from Pretoria, South Africa, discovered her passion for the arts early in life. After graduating from Pro-Arte High School in 1990, she pursued further studies in Fine Arts at the University of Pretoria. Following her degree, she embarked on a transformative journey through Europe and Africa. Joyce began her career as an Art Teacher at Pro-Arte High School and later at the National School of Arts before transitioning to full-time artistry in 2003.

Specialising in human anatomy, Joyce focuses on exploring the beauty and sensuality of the female form through her distinctive paintings and sculptures.

https://www.instagram.com/joycecarreiraart/

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‘Strike a Woman’ reflecting the “The Power of a Woman” by Ben Tuge

Located prominently near the hill from the lake, 'Strike a Woman' pays homage to the strength and resilience of African women. Ben Tuge's sculpture embodies the endurance and power carried through generations, symbolised by a woman stopping a powerful bull, reminding us of the quiet strength that defines many women's lives.

Born in Masvingo, Zimbabwe in 1969, the artist captivated villagers with his early carvings while tending cattle from the age of five. Based in Johannesburg, Ben Tuge has been with Art Eye Gallery since 2013, and has exhibited at Everard Read and National Art Galleries. His work adorns collections worldwide, known for its detailed storytelling that vividly captures moments in time. Tuge's art reflects his deep love for Africa, life, family, and humanity, imbued in every piece he creates.

https://www.instagram.com/bentugesculpturesza/

‘Stargazer’ embodies the childlike dreamer within each one of us by Louis van den Heever

'Stargazer,' crafted by Louis van den Heever, embodies the inner childlike dreamer within each of us. Positioned beside the dam, this 2-meter-tall sculpture extends towards the sky with a bronze hand, symbolising the wonder and innocence of dreaming. Van den Heever's creation captures a profound moment of awe and curiosity, inviting viewers to reconnect with their childlike sense of wonder in the presence of nature's beauty. "I enjoyed playing with his proportions, his small head conveying a sense of naive and innocent joy, untouched by overthinking or analysing this beautiful moment," reflects Louis.

Louis van den Heever, born in Pretoria in 1977, initially pursued a career in the South African Navy before diving into the scuba industry in Simon's Town. After a stint in the UK, he shifted gears in 2003 to embrace art. Since settling in Hermanus in 2013, Louis has honed his unique artistic voice, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as comic books, skateboard art, and song lyrics. His journey from pencil portraits to acrylic paintings on unconventional canvases reflects a pop-surrealist style, characterized by snapshots reminiscent of comic book panels. Beyond painting, he explores sculpture, illustration, and printmaking in his creative pursuits.

https://www.instagram.com/louis_van_den_heever/

Giant – creating a stir in the Midlands by Louis van den Heever

'The Giant,' has become an integral part of the reserve, sparking widespread fascination throughout the Midlands. Composed of 5 tons of concrete and steel anchored by 5 chains, each weighing 10 tons and dug 2 meters into the mountain, this magnificent artwork stands as a testament to perseverance and creativity. Louis van den Heever sketched the concept, sculpted a clay prototype, and meticulously constructed the monumental figure on-site, employing a blend of cement, stone, sand bags and wire framing.

The Giant took 4 months to complete and is a permanent fixture in our beautiful Midlands!

The Majesty of Art and Nature

These six new sculptures provoke deep reflection on our place in the world and our relationship with nature and each other. They stand as testaments to the creative spirit of their artists—Sandro Trapani, Joyce Carreira, Ben Tuge, and Louis van den Heever—who have skilfully woven narratives of heritage, resilience, and wonder into their works.

Each piece tells a story—ancient myths, enduring strength, childhood dreams—that resonates with our shared human experience and the timeless allure of artistic expression.

As you explore the sculptures, may you find inspiration and a renewed appreciation for the majesty of art in nature, we hope you find moments of introspection and joy, celebrating the beauty that surrounds us and the stories that connect us all.

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