Having worked as an art teacher for 18 years, Elsa Portwig of Constantia Kloof decided to follow her passion and become a professional artist.
Her big break came in 2008 when all five of the paintings she exhibited at Alice Art gallery’s signature exhibit were sold.
She describes her art as simple, modern and abstract. “I’m inspired by the freedom of movement in nature and inherent beauty of shadow and light. I use colours that vary from natural earthy tones to energising and vibrant palettes, including metals like silver, bronze and gold”, said Portwig.
The mother of two and grandmother of four enjoys painting early in the morning and gives her best to every piece of art she creates.
Portwig exhibited at festivals such as Aardklop, Klein Karoo Kunstefees and various galleries around the country and has even featured on Top Billing.
For Portwig, seeing her work displayed is a humbling experience. “I still need to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming. It really makes all the hard work that goes into my paintings worthwhile.”
Her artwork appeals to a wide range of people. Dr Mamphele Ramphele, leader of the newly-formed political party Agang, is just one of the better-known personalities who have purchased her paintings.
“When I create art, the process involves creating something from nothing. It is very fulfilling to see a canvas come to life. Before I create an art piece I try to envision where it will be displayed, always making sure that my choice of colour range and size of canvas complement the environment.”
She believes that what you put into life, you get back tenfold, and every year she donates a painting to a charitable organisation. She has made donations to CANSA and the SA Guide Dogs Association and recently she made a donation to Medi Square pharmacy in aid of Angels Place, a safe haven for abused and neglected children.
This year has been a tough one for Portwig, with her husband passing away in February. It is in times like these that she takes art as an opportunity to escape into another world and reflect on happier times in life.
