Clarens, the 'art capital of South Africa'

Situated within the secure and private Larola Chalets complex, Chalet Thabela and Chalet Phomosa are just 2 kilometres from a wide range of galleries, restaurants, cafes and curio shops in the centre of Clarens. Clarens is referred to by some as the 'art capital of South Africa'. And for good reason. This small town is said to host more art exhibitions every month than the whole of Johannesburg. Throughout the year and especially in autumn, the magnificent scenery of Clarens attracts many artists and photographers. The Artist Amble takes you to various artists who have opened their galleries to the public - such as: - Weaver Nest Gallery - Clarens scenery in pastels and oils. - The Enslin Vorster Studio - Landscape art & pottery. - Rooikat Gallery - Handmade knives & pottery. - Johan Smith Art Gallery - a fine selection of paintings, ceramics, glass and bronze. - Art & Wine Gallery on Main - The first and only Art and Wine Gallery in South Africa. Johan Smith Art Gallery (Main Street, Clarens): The Johan Smith Art Gallery opened its doors in November 1999. Situated on the Windmill Centre just off Clarens Square in the shadow of the Maluti Mountains, it is an integral part of a visit to the picturesque Eastern Free State. The gallery houses a fine selection of paintings, ceramics, glass, bronze and other works of art. Art & Wine Gallery on Main (Main Street, Clarens) Clarens has come under the spotlight recently as the new Art Mecca of South Africa with more visitors from Johannesburg flocking to the little country town in the Eastern Free State. Anton Grobbelaar has opened one of the countries most exciting new Galleries, the “Art & Wine Gallery on Main” here. The first and only Art and Wine Gallery in South Africa conveniently brings a piece of the Cape within a mere 2 hours drive from Johannesburg offers Art and Wine lovers the best opportunity in the Free State to experience the widest range of top quality wine and unique artwork by established artists at the best prices. The Gallery covering 439 square meters with beautiful mountain views was specifically designed in the Main street of Clarens to house an exquisite collection of art by well-known artists like Gregoire Boonzaier, J.H. Pierneef, Pieter van der Westhuizen, Erik Laubscher, Jan Vermeiren, Marjorie Wallace, Eben van der Merwe, Conrad Theys, Hennie Niemann, Hannetjie de Clercq, ceramics by Laura Du Toit, sculpture by Fana Malherbe and Jean Doyle, glass by David Reade and Shirley Cloete and numerous others and to stock some of the best wines that the Cape has to offer. Local artist- Marlene Swart: “I always had this urgent need to be creative and have done different kinds of crafts over the years. This included dressmaking, pottery, glass decorating, material painting and finally painting in my 40’s. “The open fields of the Eastern Free State with it’s vast blue skies and beautiful gold and ochre colours of Autumn especially reminds me of something said by Hugh Stenson; “Young love is like pale pink and lemon - wait till it gets ochre and crimson” “I am so in awe of the work of other artists and especially Errol Boyle, Adriaan Boshoff, Anton Benzon and Kobus Kotze and am always learning more and more about the wonderful art of painting.” Local artist – Johan Smith Artist Johan Smith grew up on a farm in Zimbabwe. While studying agriculture (U.S.) he took up ceramics part time. Within two years, his work was selected for both the Regional and National exhibitions of the South African Potters Association. After moving to Bethlehem in 1987, (working as agricultural researcher) he set up his own ceramic studio. Soon the tedious production process and limited palette of ceramics frustrated him. This led to experiments in watercolour, pastel and etching. In 1995 Johan quit his job to practice art professionally. The vitality, boldness and versatility of oil intrigued him, and has become his sole passion. Being selftaught, Johan has developed a very distinctive style. Thin application of oil resembles airbrush work which contrasts well with areas of thick impasto. Scratching through the paint creates perspective and texture. His interest in photography and love for nature serve as his main source of inspiration. His landscapes are uncomplicated, with little or no detail, resulting in a naive and quiet interpretation of our vast African sky. In contrast, Johan's florals are colourful, prolific and abundant.