#knowyourbenoni – Art is his master stroke
Farrarmere resident Adriaan Paul Kruger Botes (76), better known as Paul Botes, is the chairperson of the Benoni Art Route.
BCT: Tell us about your art journey?
PB: I worked in the corporate world for 33 years before moving into my passion – art.
I have been a full-time artist for 27 years.
My artist friend, Enslin Vorster and I started “Art en Route” in 1992, but it only existed for a few years.
Four years ago Elaine Marx approached me to revive the route; it is now called the Benoni Art Route (BAR).
The public is able to visit artists at four major sites to see and purchase directly from 15 devoted artists to make Benoni and the East Rand art conscious.
BCT: What inspired you to get involved with the BAR?
PB: To promote and encourage all creative people in the community to persuade their artistic talent
My full-time art took me to most major group exhibitions, several art galleries and private collectors.
I performed workshops in all of South Africa’s provinces and, presently, I am closer to home where I present art classes and monthly workshops.
BCT: Tell us about your personal life?
PB: I married Gusta Goede in 1968 and have four children, Tinus and Paul Botes, Ronel Ritchi and Magda Wood.
I was born in Bellville in 1940, where I attended my primary and high school and matriculated in 1957.
My siblings grew up in a moderate household with limited resources and started work straight after school.
I started in the insurance business, but left after 10 years after which I began working in the building industry in 1969.
I studied commercial art and production management on my own through part-time classes and achieved diplomas in both.
BCT: How would you say Benoni has changed your life?
PB: Benoni changed my life socially, professionally and religiously.
Benoni is where I met my wife who is a member of the Goede Home Builders family.
BCT: What are your hobbies?
PB: My main hobby is photography – wildlife and particularly birds.
In August this year, I recorded 23 different birds in our garden at home.
BCT: What are your plans?
PB: I am a devoted Christian and member of the Gereformeerde Kerk Benoni.
My dream for all believers is to have a perseverant and grateful life in their different attributes to be subservient to all.
Also read: Rampage hunts for the next Mr and Miss Benoni
Francois van Coke entertains Benonians
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