Guy Thesen hosts art lovers get-together

KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna artist Guy Thesen opened his home-based studio in Old Belvidere for a public visit on 21 July.

The event was organised by Amanda Louw of the Knysna Arts Society, and about 15 people attended to chat about his art process and enjoy printmaking, woodcuts, sculpture, and flat vibrant colours in his paintings.

Guy has spent the last year working on his series called "Flowers from my garden", which consists of 26 paintings inspired by his own garden.

He studied graphic design at Michaelis School of Fine Art at UCT, and became a full-time artist at the age of 45. Thesen has been influenced by post-impressionist artists like Matisse and South African rock art.

The Knysna Arts Society has been re-energised since Covid, with a vibrant committee and many members. The greater area has a huge pool of creative and talented artists, adding social value to the Garden Route.

Ilonka Louw, Bets Kerr and Jeannine Fox were enthusiastic visitors of Guy Thesen's home studio.

Thesen is open to interested visitors and is happy to chat with fellow artists anytime.

A monthly visit to a local artist is arranged for KAS members to expose fellow artists to a diverse range of mediums, allowing personal growth, acquainting them with each other, and exposing the host artist and their work to an informed audience.

The artist community is enthusiastic about showcasing their work and needs wider exposure to grow Knysna into a prime art hub.

Pieces from Guy Thesen's previous collection, Mermaids.