In 2016, I finally realized that being a painter is the sole career for me. One would think, being the daughter of artist, Zerk de Villiers, submerged in art since my birth in 1986, Bloemfontein, it was a given to follow in his footsteps. But this career demands the unique combination of humility and bravery as my parents demonstrated. So after trying all other paths, having had denial and fear, I have surrendered to the call of the canvass.

Sitting in front of my easel I realize the following foundations are profound on my art today:

The subjects Art History, Languages like French, Creative Writing, Ancient Cultures and Philosophy, I studied in BA Humanities at Potchefstroom.

Art classes with Barend Grobblaar, where keen observation, control of tonal values and the responsibilities being an artist formed the basis of his Studio Visio. I still have an intense love for watercolour.

My wide spread taste in music (from Loreena McKennit to Led Zeppelin) and poetry (Leonard Cohen to Pablo Neruda) keeps my subject matter evolving. I’ve always appreciated the works of the Pre-Raphaelites being an Idealist.

The ongoing and intense collaboration with my father, results in my endeavour to create intense depth and luminosity by his uniquely developed technique of translucent acrylic paint layering. I add to this my love for relief patterns and lustre mediums.

My work merges meaningful and well executed art with the kind of art anyone can enjoy and communicate with daily.

Gallery