Vivienne du Toit

Personal Statement

Africa is a spiritual place and the birth place of humanity. Its amazing variety of colours, textures, tribes, wildlife, sounds and smells are wonderful inspiration to the artist. I was blessed to have been born there. My first drawings as a child were inspired by the rugged Kalahari Desert and the rich waterways of Okavango Delta this is an experience I will treasure forever.  People and the environmental tapestry of texture were the subjects of my first artistic endeavours and continue to inspire me today.

My studies took me into the colourful world of textile design. Africa's stories are often told through the fabrics that adorn its people. Rich colours and bold designs were the foundations on which I evolved my style.

My paintings and drawings are indicative of the exploration and experience I gained in design, and are a tribute to the years I spent in the textile, design and fashion industries.

Drawing has been a key foundation in my painting both during the initial stages and in the finished work, what I like about drawing is that it is a very engaging and almost meditative process. It is the blueprint of all my conceptual work.

In my abstract work I attempt to connect with the subconscious and rely on moods, memories, and moments of my life in Africa and Australia. My work is ever evolving never static.  I feel all my work, is a piece of me - an expression of self.  I paint mainly in acrylic. My drawings are in charcoal, pencil and pastels.

For me, it is a great privilege to be able to share my passion with someone who is willing to display my work in theirs lives to look at everyday.