The Blue Caterpillar Art Gallery on the Butterflies for Africa premises welcomes to the gallery artists Thomas Vermeulen, Christopher Haw and Royalene.

Born in the Southern Freestate, Thomas Vermeulen studied at the University of Cape Town and the University of Natal. This master ceramicist is equally talented in the disciplines of photography and fine art and his ceramics are known for their translucent double glazes He taught mainly in Natal, lecturing at the Durban Teachers Training College before moving to the Technikon Free State where he was the senior lecturer and Departmental Head for the Faculty of Art and Design. Thomas has participated in group and solo exhibitions. His work has received international as well as local recognition through local newspapers and magazines.

Christopher Haw is acclaimed as one of South Africa’s foremost and most versatile realist impressionist painters. A Fellow of the Watercolour Society of South Africa, he believes that total empathy with the subject matter or painting at hand, is vital and essential toward a successful outcome. “If I constantly aspire to engender into every painting a spirit of unity and a sense of rapport with the subject, to a moment of such empathy, that my eyes are swimming in their tears, then I know that I am truly on course toward a heart-to-heart union with the viewers of my work”. This passion and versatility has opened doors to international exhibitions and commissions.

Royalene’s name bears reference to the fact that her birth coincided to the day with the arrival of the Royal Family in South Africa in 1947. Matriculating from Pretoria High School for Girls in 1964, Royalene undertook a career in graphic design which she followed until her marriage. Commencing in 1969, her early work was brush and acrylic, covering a wide variety of subject matter. Later her professional work developed using the palette knife and oils. She now specialises in florals, creating magnificent flowers with a thick impasto technique. Her work is featured private collections worldwide as well as respected local art galleries.

More information from Amanda on 033 387 1356 or email her at art@butterflies.co.za