From Inspiration to Canvas
Every painting tells a story — not just of the place it depicts, but of the journey from first glimpse to final brushstroke. Here's a look at how my work comes to life.
Gathering Inspiration
Every painting begins with a moment that captures my attention — a play of light on a landscape, the character of an old building, or a scene that evokes emotion. I photograph extensively, collecting reference material that speaks to me.
The Underpainting
I start with a loose sketch directly on the canvas, blocking in the main shapes and establishing the composition. This stage is about capturing the essence and structure before any detail work begins.
Building Layers
Working in my studio in Villiersdorp, I build up the painting layer by layer. Each session adds depth, refines colours, and brings the scene closer to life. A good cup of coffee and my wall of reference images keep me company.
Refining Details
As the painting develops, I focus on the details that bring it to life — the texture of foliage, the warmth of light on wood, the subtle colour shifts in shadows. This is where patience and observation pay off.
The Finished Work
The final painting is carefully finished and framed, ready to find its new home. Each piece carries the memory of the place that inspired it and the hours of focused work that brought it to canvas.
The Studio
My studio in the small town of Villiersdorp is where the magic happens. Surrounded by the Western Cape mountains, with a wall of tiny reference images and an ever-present cup of coffee, I spend my days translating the landscapes I love onto canvas.
Each painting takes anywhere from several hours to several weeks, depending on size and complexity. The process can't be rushed — layers need to dry, colours need to be considered, and sometimes a painting needs to sit for a while before I know what it needs next.
See the Results
Browse my collection of original paintings, each one created with the care and attention you've seen here.
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