From the paintings, graphics, drawings, photographs and installations to the sculptures, buildings, antiques and landscaping.
They are all an aesthetic response to our environment. Our way to record and celebrate our historical, cultural and natural legacy. And just as much, to give expression to our values.
We are exceptionally lucky to have pictorial records from the 18th century that have helped us to restore accurately some of the early Cape Dutch buildings on the property.
For almost a year, between 1786 and 1787, Jan Brandes, a visiting Dutch artist, painted and drew from life on the farm, recording the buildings, the flora and fauna. These works have been invaluable to our heritage architects, as well as to the landscapers who have helped us to return parts of the farm to indigenous habitat.
Although one small original Brandes work is kept on the estate, there are reproductions of the many others on display here. Today, the originals are housed mostly in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam in The Netherlands.
In the gardens, you’ll encounter the bronze sculptures of leading South African artist Dylan Lewis. Conceived as a bridge linking history, architecture and landscape, they show a melding of human with animal forms in the spirit of optimism as we seek to redefine humanity’s relationship with nature. The eternal tension between people and nature is captured in the contrast between the smooth-formed humans and the rough-hewn animals. They are a constant reminder that we must find balance as we farm alongside nature, not against it.
Also look out for the tall, endearing duck bronzes sculpted by exciting, new-generation talent Manuela Holzer. Now a PhD student at the University of Pretoria, she has already exhibited widely in South Africa as well as in Austria and Belgium. Manuela is celebrated as much for her consummate technique as for her portrayal of subjects (animal and human) rendered with deep insight, empathy and respect. While completing her Master’s degree in visual arts at Stellenbosch University, she won a competition that earned her a Vergenoegd Löw commission to sculpt Indian Runner ducks. Before committing to a final mould, she walked with the ducks, observing them closely as they went to work in the vineyards. And she did extensive anatomical research and drawings of the ducks. She has expertly captured the upright leaning posture of a typical duck in movement, its curiosity and friendly, easy-going nature. There are four duck sculptures on the farm, including one gilded with 24-karat gold leaf version on display in the fine dining restaurant, Clara’s Barn.
Still to fully grow are a maze and a labyrinth that invite conversations with nature. To walk our seven-circuit medieval-style labyrinth will be to follow its single, continuous path until reaching its central space. A transformative journey of contemplation, it will give guests the chance to relax, release and recharge.
The puzzle maze will have two paths leading to a blessing well in the centre. Opened doors may reveal or obscure. To find the centre will require focus and patience, but the effort will feel immensely rewarding.
Meanwhile, our chapel’s intimate interior features a reproduction of a triptych altarpiece by the 16th century German artist Hans Baldung Grien. Taught by the legendary artist Albrecht Dürer, Baldung Grien was considered one of his most gifted students. The reproduction brings a richness of colour and detail to this simple, peaceful place of contemplation or prayer.
Our art walk has been devised for you to explore our sculptures, paintings and landscaping in a way that we hope will surprise and delight, enchant and intrigue. Of course, you may wish to discover our works in your own sequence and that’s fine too. Follow the our blue cobble stones along the route or simply refer to the map.
From here you continue your journey aside the dam back to the Homestead – the perfect opportunity to enjoy a glass of our award-winning wines and the tranquillity of the werf!