About me
Born in the Eastern Cape town of Uitenhage and schooled in the dusty town of Oudtshoorn, I grew up in the shadow of the Swartberge, surrounded by the red hills where hardy succulents thrive. This awe inspiring landscape of the little Karoo laid deep tracks in my heart, to pour out in my creations of simple, moving form, in an intense palette and imaginative additions of found objects.
After initial studies in the arts, I made a wide detour to the world of medical pathology in Bloemfontein, before coming back to my roots to roost in Port Elizabeth and returning to my first love, the visual arts.
Life experience together with deep introspection brought clarity of vision of the message I encapsulate in my creations – the permeating connectivity of Earth with the creatures living here, of human to human and human to Creator. The answer that comes to the fore is that every person must walk the road to self healing; via self investigation find the answers.
Among the subjects chosen by me are landscapes inspired by the South African surrounds, earth conservation and positive vibrations fueled by self discovery shown as abstract visions of light and beauty.
Music plays an important element – when creating I choose music of the trance-lounge genre with harmonious vibrations that flow into my work to create works of positive life-affirming energy.
The media chosen is a happy mix of acrylics on canvas or sculptural mosaics. It is combining different elements to form new and refreshing vibrations. After investigating the past, work is created for the here and now, with an eye to the future.
I live and work currently in Port Elizabeth, where I also practice holistic healing. Another exiting new project is collaborating with a group of PE artists to raise awareness on ecological issues, increase the focus on the necessity of recycling and creating of functional art.
The sculptural mosaics can be viewed on http://crystalmandalas.weebly.com/
To place an order or contact me for a commission, please e-mail me at maristhas@gmail.com