From a very early age, local resident Magriet Botha knew that she would be an artist one day.
Magriet spend her childhood years in Randfontein and received her Honours degree in Fine Art from the University of Free State with distinctions in drawing, painting and art history. In 2010 she received her Master’s degree in Fine Arts, also with distinction.
Also read: Graffiti – vandalism or art?
As a student she was administrative assistant for the Artist in Schools project. In 2010 she taught research strategy at the University of Technology in Bloemfontein and also taught art for Grades 3–12 at Saint Michael’s School for Girls. In 2013 she returned to Randfontein. She participated in numerous exhibitions, curated others and has numerous artworks in public and private collections.
In 2011 she delivered a paper at an international conference on performance art. In 2013, one of her artworks, “Milner’s Trophy”, was selected for the Oorlogsmuseum centenary festival in Bloemfontein and it’s now part of their permanent collection. Then in 2015 she helped the Randfontein Municipality to reconstruct its art gallery and was the guest speaker at their grand opening.
Magriet is currently the head of Cum Laude Art School and chairs the Randfontein Art Association. She also teaches art at a local primary school, and is the proud mother of a beautiful daughter.
“Cum Laude Art School is a safe and happy place where lots of young children learn very important skills and where adults enrich their lives,” said Magriet.
Magriet told the Herald she was lucky to have dedicated parents who saw the potential in her and helped her to develop it.
Also read: Young artist has high hopes
According to Magriet, being an artist is an ongoing learning process, and it is never easy. It is not just about techniques and mediums, but more importantly, it’s about knowledge and how to portray certain philosophical and intellectual ideas.
Magriet is very interested in the history of the Afrikaner, and is currently busy with a triptych about the relationship between the Anglo Boer War and the contemporary Afrikaner.
“Art should bring joy to people’s life. I have painted numerous commissioned works of loved ones or other things that they love, for various people, and they always put a smile on their faces,” said Magriet.
She looks forward to her future as an artist, and with love and dedication she will strive to create the perfect image.
Anyone who would like to visit the Cum Laude Art School can contact Magriet on 0824652519 for further information.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
