Of the Animals / For the Animals

ABOUT

OF THE ANIMALS | FOR THE ANIMALS

Ceramic art exhibition of animals in aid of animal welfare : Celebrating the Legacy of NICOLENE SWANEPOEL

Join us for an exclusive opening gala on November 8, 2024.

In this tribute to the late Nicolene Swanepoel (1962–2016), the exhibition seeks to honor and preserve her legacy while championing the critical cause of animal welfare, a cause she supported throughout her life. Whilst a more extensive retrospective is planned for 2025, this intimate exhibition will showcase a curated selection of ceramic works discovered in Nicolene's studio after her passing.

This will mark the first solo exhibition of her work since her death and will be held at Koring Villa in Koringberg, a serene setting that reflects the spirit of her work. This is not just a rare opportunity to acquire one of Nicolene Swanepoel’s masterpieces, but also to support a cause very dear to her heart. A portion of the proceeds from sales will be donated to support Ek n Jy NPC's Animal Outreach Fund: www.eknjy.co.za

The exhibition will also be open to the public on November 9 and 10, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

A brief background of NICOLENE SWANEPOEL

Nicolene Swanepoel (born 31 March 1962) had a passion for art and an immense love for animals. This led her to receive no less than 3 degrees in these disciplines: a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1983, a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 1991 and an MTech (Fine Arts, specialising in ceramics) in 2008. Her research project for her MTech is titled Representations of Cattle as Cultural Markers Towards South African Identities.

She produced internationally acclaimed work in many mediums, including pastel, acrylic and oil painting, silkscreens and ceramics. Towards the end of her life she was best known for her sculptural ceramic work, all of which expressed her love for animals and her intricate understanding of their shapes and mannerisms. Much of her artwork is also a commentary on human utilisation and exploitation of animals and our all to often ‘inhumane’ attitudes to them and each other.

Before committing to becoming a full-time artist in 2008, she lectured in human-animal interaction and animal behaviour at the Faculty of Veterinary Science, at Onderstepoort, as well as at some European institutions.

Awards and collections

Awards and international prizes "Animals in Art", Louisiana State University, 1997. JAVMA-award. "Trienalle Mondiale D'estampes Petit Format", 1994 - One of 17 prizes awarded to a total of 830 artists from 80 countries. Premier Award, Ceramics South Africa’s National Exhibition, University of Johannesburg Art Gallery, 27 August – 23 September 2008. National awards The Glazecor Award, Reflections in Clay Ceramics South Africa exhibition, 2005. International publications on artwork SWANEPOEL, N.C. 2005. Spirit Guards in South Africa. Ceramics Art and Perception. 61: 66-69. International collections South Africa House, London. Cite Internationale des Art, Paris.

About Koringberg

Just 15 kilometers from Moorreesburg along the N7 towards Piketberg, and a scenic hour’s drive from Cape Town, lies the quaint village of Koringberg, surrounded by vibrant wintergreen and summergold wheatfields. Koringberg offers a variety of charming accommodation options for those wishing to enjoy a weekend stay during the exhibition.

About the venue

Koring Villa, located in the heart of Koringberg, offers a picturesque country setting that enhances the charm of this unspoiled paradise. Visitors to the exhibition will be captivated by the stunning surroundings and the villa's country chic style, which provides a beautiful backdrop for Nicolene’s art. www.koringvilla.co.za

A limited number of 60 tickets are available for the opening gala from R200 pp.

DIRECTIONS