The hills of the Matopos, the Chimanimani Mountains or the Zambezi was a playground of vast landscapes and the wonderment of life. Art definitely runs in the Thwaits Family. Thomas Thwaits arrived in Cape Town from England in the mid 1800 to be the Art Master at the Reverend James Becks School in Roland Street, Cape Town, South Africa. His granddaughter Emily Thwaits was a renowned and successful
artist whose works of flowers are - to this day - found in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (Cape Town, South Africa). Often Colin’s children and grandchildren are found sketching or painting for hours and in the near future will be showcased on this page as well. Art was never formalised but developed through trial and error, trying, experimenting and forming his unique style over the years. In Colin’s own words: “My mother would often make me a few sandwiches and encourage me to go into the vlei to paint. Most times I would simply gaze at the Weeping Willows along the banks of the Hinyani River or be amazed at the millions of sweeping Cosmos flowers stretching to the horizon. I could never capture the vastness of the landscape, the solitude and closeness I felt with God; but it filled my heart and soul with a quiet knowingness that I mattered in life.” Later he began to put his reflections down on canvas, preferring Acrylics as a medium. It was only many decades later that his wife, Johanita, suggested his art seemed like conversations he was having with his soul. If one of his paintings connects and resonates with you then you have shared a moment in time with him. Make contact with us and share your thoughts or conversations you have, as you follow us online. [email protected] or +27 79 254 5750
