Olivedale residents makes unique pebble art
Olivedale resident earns money by selling one-of-a-kind pebble fridge magnets at local markets
Michelle Liebenberg, an Olivedale resident, earns money by working with her hands and being creative.
She fell in love and created her first piece of artwork using pebbles last year (2022) when she was unemployed. She loved bargain hunting and always looks for things to make crafts.
“The one shop was closing down, and I bought three containers with pebbles for R25. At the time I did not know what I was going to do with it. I googled pebbles and found pebble art ideas.”
Her art involves miniature creatures made out of pebbles and small stones. “I have always loved making tiny things and it is so satisfying scratching through the pebbles and stones to find the objects I am creating.”
Liebenberg uses small pebbles, river stones, and shells to make miniature creatures resembling people or animals. She also uses twigs, sticks, and seeds as part of the art.
She explained that this form of art is important to her. As she likes to make people happy and to see them smile- especially in a time where there is so much negativity and uncertainty.
“I sold a fridge magnet with the words ” Hang in there” to a recovering alcoholic and when she looked at it, it gave her the courage to stay sober. I love to see the look on peoples’ faces when I give them their orders, as everyone I make is specially made as per their request.”
She sells her fridge magnets at local flea markets for R25 each. These make ideal gifts for small corporate companies and wedding favours.
“Last year an estate agent ordered magnets from me to give her clients instead of the usual Christmas and business cards. It was really a challenge to make 50 different Christmas-themed magnets, ranging from Father Christmas at the Northpole to reindeer on the beach, kitties singing carols, and even frogs with Christmas hats. All teeny tiny pebbles and her clients loved it.”
Liebenberg was born in the late 60s. She grew up with her mom, who was very artistic and encouraged her to be creative.
“Back in the day we did not have TV, my mom would help us make all sorts of things out of modelling clay, cardboard, pieces of wood etc. I wish my mom was still alive so that she could see what she has ignited in me. A passion to create.”
For more information about pebble art: liebenbergmichelle11@gmail.com
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