I’ve always felt at home in stillness.
There’s a rhythm to it that speaks to me, something in the quiet that makes the world feel full, not empty.
I live in Stilbaai, a small coastal town on the southern tip of South Africa, where the ocean murmurs softly day and night, and the land stretches wide with wild Fynbos. The world here moves slowly, and there’s a peace in that pace. It’s a place where the sea and sky seem to be endless, and where solitude is not a burden, but a space to breathe.
I also paint landscapes. The fynbos here—are muted colors against the soft greens and browns of the landscape. I paint them, too, not just as flowers, but as part of a life lived in harmony with the earth. The way the sunlight filters through the leaves, the way the wind moves the flowers—those details are what matter most to me. There’s a stillness in the movement, a peace in the solitude.
It’s hard not to often paint the sea, when it’s such a constant presence in my life. I find a lot of meaning in the stillness of the water, the way it reflects the sky, the way it’s both moving and still at the same time.
I like the intimacy of a smaller piece, the way it pulls you in close, like you’re a part of the moment, not just an observer. My subjects are often women, but not the kinds of women that the world notices. They are women in quiet moments, alone but never lonely. They’re at peace in their solitude. These moments of stillness are my language. They’re how I see life—simple, tender, and full of meaning.
There’s a grace in small, everyday actions, a quiet reverence for life that I find deeply beautiful.
I’ve never been interested in painting grand, dramatic scenes. It’s the quiet moments that speak to me—the soft curves of a woman’s hand, the play of light across a room, the shimmer of water in the distance. Those are the things I want to capture. I want to paint the joy that comes from solitude, the peace that comes when you’re not looking for anything else but the moment you’re in.
My paintings aren’t about loneliness or isolation. They are about finding peace in being alone, about discovering the depth of contentment that comes from simply being present with yourself. The world outside doesn’t always have to be bustling or full of people for there to be beauty.
Sometimes, beauty is in the quiet. Every time I pick up my brush, I find something new in these simple moments. Something that fills me, and I hope, fills those who see my work.
I paint because I love the stillness, the softness of life when you stop and pay attention. It’s not about grand gestures. It’s about finding the quiet joy in being fully present, in living each moment as it comes. And in that, I’ve found my peace.
Stilbaai Galery is an enchanting and intimate art space nestled in the picturesque town of Stilbaai—a haven for art enthusiasts. Visitors are invited to step into the gallery and embark on a delightful journey into the world of art, where they can immerse themselves in a captivating array of contemporary masterpieces.
The gallery takes great pride in presenting the works of emerging talents and established artists from all corners of the country. Since the doors opened in December 2022, Stilbaai Galery has swiftly earned a reputation for its remarkable collection of high-quality artworks and innovative exhibitions that push the boundaries of artistic expression.
Guiding the artistic vision are Nadine Hansen and Ingrid Smit, both accomplished artists and co-owners. Their discerning artistic sensibilities and unwavering passion for nurturing creativity bring a unique perspective to the curation process. Drawing from their rich artistic backgrounds and experiences, they meticulously select and present artworks that challenge, inspire, and captivate visitors.
Contemporary art, the cornerstone of the gallery, mirrors the ever-evolving cultural, social, and political landscape. It defies conventional artistic norms and embraces a multitude of perspectives. Within the gallery’s walls, visitors will find a diverse range of contemporary art forms, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, and new media.
The aim of Stilbaai Galery is to introduce thought-provoking works that actively engage viewers and ignite meaningful conversations. Contemporary art encourages experimentation, innovation, and critical thinking, holding the power to inspire, challenge, and transform both individuals and entire communities.
At Stilbaai Galery, there is a wholehearted dedication to supporting local and national artists, providing a platform to showcase their exceptional creations that beautifully encapsulate the essence of the vibrant culture.
