Page 21 - Kyalami Estates Issue 1 February 2024

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

n the first installment of our sculptures don't fade or change over
exploration into the life and work time. They keep their beauty for many,
of Bernie van der Vyver, we traced many years.
the origins of his love for art and
Inature from his childhood spent in Q: Can you tell us more about how the
Bethal, South Africa. We learned how works of Coert Steynberg and Jo Roos
his passion, fused with the strength and influenced your artistic direction?
longevity of bronze, enabled him to craft A: The works by Coert Steynberg and
masterpieces that echo the spirit of the Jo Roos had a significant impact on me.
African wilderness. Now, we delve deeper The way they managed to craft such
into the mind of this esteemed artist to vivid, lifelike subjects in bronze was
gain insights into his artistic process, mesmerizing. Their works didn't just
inspiration, and the latest venture that look real; they felt alive, almost as if
challenges him to step out of his comfort their subjects could spring into motion
zone. at any moment.

Q: Could you tell us about your Q: How did the realism and detail in
upbringing and how it influenced your Steynberg and Roos's works affect you?
journey into art? A: Beyond the realism, what truly
A: Growing up on a farm in Bethal was struck me was the lasting nature of
really special. Animals and nature have their art. Bronze doesn't fade or change
always surrounded me. I loved collecting over time, preserving the beauty
pictures of all kinds of creatures. and essence of these sculptures for Q: Can you share more about your
Studying their forms and movements, I generations to enjoy. current project?
started drawing them. This was how I first A: Right now, I'm working on an
got into art. Being around so much wildlife Q: Why was the endurance of bronze as extraordinary project. I've been asked
sparked my love for nature and art. a medium so appealing to you? to make a bronze sculpture of a San
A: Witnessing the enduring bushman in a hunting pose with a
Q: When did you start making art? What magnificence of Steynberg's and Roos's traditional bow.
were the initial mediums you used? works, I was inspired to create my own
A: When I started making art, I used bronze sculptures. I wanted to produce Q: How does this project differ from your
simple things like pencils, paper, and art that could withstand the test of time, previous works?
clay. These materials were easy to use becoming a lasting testament to the A: The San bushmen are famous for
and helped me express my ideas. subjects I am so passionate about. their respectful hunting ways. It's a
real honour to represent this in my
Q: How were you introduced to bronze Q: How did the Knysna exhibition art. I'm taking extra care to study and
sculptures? influence your decision to use bronze as understand their hunting practices
A: Everything changed when I saw the your primary medium? to portray this figure accurately and
bronze sculptures by Coert Steynberg A: At the Knysna exhibition, I truly respectfully. This sculpture is not just a
and Jo Roos. Their work was truly unique. grasped the depth and potential of piece of art. It's a tribute to the hunting
Part 2 in bronze look incredibly real and full of on display, seeing all this bronze artwork tradition of the San people. I think my
bronze artistry. Among the many pieces
They had a way of making their subjects
fans will look forward to this unique and
made me realize I wanted to make art
life.
meaningful piece of art.
Q: What caught your attention about that could also last. I wanted to create In this deep dive into Bernie van der
sculptures that could be enjoyed not
bronze as a medium? just now but for years. The works of Vyver's artistic process and inspiration,
A: What caught my attention was how Steynberg, Roos, and all the artists at we've seen how his passion for nature
their pieces stood the test of time. the Knysna exhibition played a significant and art, sparked in childhood, has
Unlike drawings or clay models, bronze role in this decision. driven him to create bronze sculptures
that not only capture the raw beauty of
the African wilderness but also stand
the test of time. This exploration has
shed light on the depth of thought,
observation, and respect for his subjects
that Bernie invests in every piece he
creates. As we look forward to his
new project paying tribute to the San
bushmen, we are again reminded of how
his work brings stories to life, fostering
a deeper appreciation for nature and
indigenous cultures.

To continue following Bernie's
extraordinary journey and explore
more of his work, click here
or on Linkedin, click here

Kyalami Estates • CONNECT • Issue 1 • 2024 19