Art comes in many forms, and sculpture is a medium where thoughts are given weight and emotion is cast in shadow and light, bringing ideas to life in solid form. Let’s take a look at a few iconic and thought-provoking pieces.
The Dlamini Collection
For the past 20 years, these figurines have been sold at the Zulu Lulu Gallery, located in Piggly Wiggly. They are ceramic, sculpted from clay by Tim Dlamini and Tim Buthelezi. The exterior effect is created by combining fire, glazing and baking in a raku kiln, before being put into sawdust at 1000℃ to give it that crackled effect. You will notice each figurine has an item on their head, this is determined by what is on their minds and in their hearts. It is inspired by the notion that from a young age, local people are adept at carrying things on their heads. They are beautiful collectables to adorn your home with, and now is the best time to snatch one (or a few) before they are out of stock!
About Piggly Wiggly: Situated on the R103 Midlands Meander, and on the beautiful property of Highgate Wine Estate, you get a distinctive outdoor shopping centre with gorgeous views of the vineyards. Offering a variety of lifestyle destination shops, more than five eating establishments, plenty of activities for young and old, Piggly Wiggly is a must-visit destination.
Instagram: @zulululu_arthouse
Brahman Hills’ Giant
After months of reported sightings in the area, it has now been confirmed that there appears to be a giant living right beneath the hill! He simply appeared one misty morning, his enormous head half emerging from the hillside, ominously peering at the freeway. Experts seem to think this giant might be a scout sent up to the surface to consider how humans treat the Earth. Renowned artist Louis van den Heever sketched the concept, sculpted a clay prototype, and meticulously constructed the monumental figure on-site, employing a blend of cement, stone, sandbags and wire framing. Composed of five tons of concrete and steel anchored by five chains, each weighing 10 tonnes and dug two metres into the mountain, this magnificent artwork is a testament to perseverance and creativity.
Leda and the Signet at Brahman Hills
According to Greek mythology, Zeus seduced Leda, Queen of Sparta, disguised as a swan. Leda holds the young swan in her outstretched arms, teaching it to fly by flapping its wings—a vision of love, devotion and the celebration of differences in form and identity. Leda overcomes the cultural and natural differences between herself and the signet by adopting the necessary characteristics and physical attributes to accommodate the needs of her young one, encouraging the signet to accept her guidance. The talented Joyce Carreira who created this stunning piece, specialises in human anatomy, which led her on a journey of discovery to depict the female form. Cast in bronze, this sculpture embodies the excitement and anticipation of a journey into the unknown.
About Brahman Hills: Home of spectacular views, abundant game, fine dining and charming country accommodation, Brahman Hills is right on the doorstep of the famous Midlands Meander. With a conference venue, wedding facilities and a spa, this diverse and enchanting landscape has much to offer.
Instagram: @brahmanhills
The Unity Arch
The rationale and philosophy of the design is entrenched in the nature, meaning, physicality and aesthetic of the Indentured Labour of South Africa. Every aspect of their journey is entwined and symbolised within the monument. All steel is between 4mm and 8mm thick and with a Galtex sealer, currently being built by Brendon Edwards at Infinity at Enfin Art Estate. The outer upright steel curves are a layered representation, in a compelling human story, with the names of 684 individuals who made this journey of endurance etched into the structure and the 29 who passed on the internal structure. The two outer steel uprights are representative of the two passenger ships, ‘The Belvedere’ and ‘The Truro’. The main arch of unity is another strong focal point. All life is defined by time and the unity arch marks their time.
About Infinity at Enfin Estate: This magnificent organic venue overlooks one of the oldest World Heritage Sites, the Drakensberg Mountain Range. Constructed on the mountainside of the 100 acre Enfin Estate you will find the creation of artists Brendon Edwards and Michelle Cleveland – Infinity.
Instagram: @infinity_enfin_art_estate
Morning Coffee
By Falconer Art Studios, Seth and Claire Falconer, this piece represents the balance, beauty, and tension of collaboration. Just as two partners chat over their morning coffee, these African paradise flycatchers breathe together before the day begins. This limited-edition bronze is on display at The Platform Gallery in Lion’s River. With the coppery tones and blue shimmer of the flycatchers, this sculpture is worth viewing in person. The birds are life-size and seem to have alighted on the branch just moments ago.
Paradise
South Africa’s incredible blue cranes are also known as Paradise Cranes. In this piece, three cranes take flight. Are they searching for paradise or leaving it? Or is it in fact at this very moment? This limited-edition artwork was handcast in bronze. It was sculpted by Claire and Seth Falconer in their Midlands studio. The studio is part of a bronze foundry where they cast their own work and those of other Midlands artists. ‘Paradise’ is available for viewing by appointment at the studios, which are outside Mooi River, next door to Hartford House.
About Falconer Art Studios: A collaboration between South African artists, Falconer Art Studios create custom sculptures. Artists Claire Falconer and Seth Falconer sculpt the original artworks, then work with their team at The Falconer Foundry to transform these sculptures into timeless bronze.
Instagram: @falconerartstudios