Page 21 - Kyalami Estates Issue 4_2023

Kyalami Estates Corporate Brand Bible Design 26
3.0 Folder (Inner)
ART & CRAFT

Bernie van der Vyver's
sculptures, echoing
the heartbeat of the

African wilderness,
are cherished in art

collections worldwide

Part 1 TEXT AND PHOTOS BY ANTHONY CAVANAGH

he genesis of Bernie van
der Vyver's artistic journey
began in the heart of Bethal
in 1969. From an early
age, pencils, paper, and
Tclay became his trusted
companions on the expansive farm where
he grew up. This early immersion in the
arts and nature laid the foundation for an
artist whose bronze masterpieces would
echo the spirit of the wild.

"Growing up on a farm in Bethal was
really special. Animals and nature
always surrounded me. I loved collecting their realistic beauty and the underlying
pictures of all kinds of creatures. message of wildlife conservation.
Studying their forms and movements,
I started drawing them. This was how I From a child moulding clay on a Bethal
first got into art. I think being around so farm to a master bronze sculptor, Bernie
much wildlife sparked my love for nature van der Vyver's journey is a testament to
and art." his dedication and love for his craft. His
sculptures, echoing the heartbeat of the
With a steady hand and a creative mind, African wilderness, are cherished in art
Van der Vyver's art evolved beyond his
collections worldwide.
BERNIE VAN youth's sketches and clay models. He wildlife reserves, he immerses himself Bernie van der Vyver is more than an
ventured into the intricate and complex
world of bronze sculpture, honing his skills
artist; he's a storyteller. His bronze
sculptures, alive with the spirit of the
to create hyper-realistic representations of
African wilderness, narrate tales of
wild animals. Each exhibition saw his talents
DER VYVER further unfold, catching the discerning eyes in the world of his wild subjects. These beauty, survival, and natural harmony.
of art lovers and critics alike.
field trips serve as his study sessions,
complemented by photography, which
His profound love for nature and
exceptional talent has made his creations
Often, van der Vyver's sculptures are
aids him in capturing the intricacies of
these animals. His love for the natural
custom-made. Working closely with
sought-after additions to art collections
world is palpable in every crevice and
worldwide.
clients, he ensures that each piece
CRAFTING THE AFRICAN aligns with their vision and his artistic curve of his bronze creations. Don't miss Part 2 in the next issue!
interpretation. This collaborative approach
guarantees that each piece is a unique
Van der Vyver's bronze masterpieces have
left an imprint on the global art scene and
fusion of the patron's desire and the
Continue following Bernie's extraordinary
WILDERNESS IN BRONZE artist's expression. shaped viewers' perceptions of wildlife. journey and explore more of his work on
his Facebook page (click here). You can
His sculptures, exhibited in galleries and
Van der Vyver finds his muse in nature.
also connect and get in touch with Bernie
museums across South Africa, Europe,
on LinkedIn (click here).
Regularly visiting national parks and
and the United States, are celebrated for
Kyalami Estates • CONNECT • Issue 4 • 2023 19