Adams Campus Bookshop and IKE's Books and Collectables recently launched The Paintings of the Bay of Natal by Nigel Hughes which features a foreword by Gillian Scott-Berning.

In this book Nigel Hughes combines his interest in the art of early Natal with that of Durban Bay resulting in a selection of images covering an era that is long gone. More than 70 magnificent full-colour plates (beginning with a chart from 1856 and ending with a painting from 1982), with brief explanatory texts, provide a unique review of the development of the Bay of Natal over a century and a half. This is achieved through the eyes of a variety of accomplished artists including the well-known Thomas Baines, Thomas Bowler, Gwelo Goodman, Cathcart Methven, Clement Seneque and Maud Summer.

Nigel Hughes has spent some years assembling this rich collection of artworks. In publishing them he shares his passion for painting and sailing, his interest in the Bay and the sea and his knowledge of ships and shipping. He is an active yachtsman and member of the Point Yacht Club and the Royal Natal Yacht Club.

Over the past years Nigel has developed an intimate knowledge of Durban Harbour, its history and shipping activities. He is also an avid collector of Southern African antiquarian charts and books, particularly those maritime in nature, and in this way combines a keen enthusiasm for art and historical research.

The Deluxe edition is available at R2,995 with the Standard edition being priced at R595. IKE's Bookshop, formerly run by the late much-loved Joseph Mayet, is situated at 48a Florida Road. Phone 031 303-9214.