Two commissions for our Minister of Tourism



Nguni Bull - Oil on Canvas 1300 x 900

 I recently completed two large Nguni paintings for Tourism House in Pretoria. Both paintings were commissioned by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, one to hang in his office and the other in the tourism boardroom. I feel so honored to have been chosen by the Minister to do these two paintings and appreciate the personal letter of thanks I received from him.
South Africa's indigenous Nguni cattle, long the mainstay of traditional Zulu culture, are possibly the most beautiful cattle in the world.
Nguni cattle are known for their fertility and resistance to diseases, being the favorite breed amongst the indigenous Bantu people of Southern Africa. They are characterized by their multi coloured skin, which can present many different patterns, but their noses are always black-tipped.

White Nguni - Oil on Canvas 1300 x 900

The ancestors of Nguni cattle were brought by the Xhosa, Zulu and Swazi people, during their migration to South Africa between 600 and 700 AD. Since then, these animals have played an important social and economic role in the development of these societies and are used as a bride's dowry. The number of animals held by a village or individual determined much of their importance to the rest of the world. King Shaka of the Zulus understood this cultural and economic importance and seized control of the Nguni herds on his dominions. Shaka also bred the Ngunis according to colour patterns in order to produce skins for the several regiments of his army, henceforward recognized by them. His elite personal guard was recognised by pure white, from animals of the royal herd, the inyonikayiphumuli.
Commissions undertaken: originals@hermanus.co.za

Lone Acacia Tree

Lone Acacia Tree - Oil on Canvas 1200 x 950

Out of my Gallery/Studio November 2011

“If you look closely at a tree you'll notice it's knots and dead branches, just like our bodies. What we learn is that beauty and imperfection go together wonderfully.” Matthew Fox

Thundering through the dust

It’s always a challenge to do a painting of an elephant – but I never shy away from a challenge. “Mock Charge” a large canvas capturing a true African savanna moment. A young bull emerges through the storm and dust in a non threatening mock charge.
A commission for good patrons of mine Johan and Naomi Wessels. Enjoy!

"Early Rains - Grotto Beach Hermanus"

Early Rains - Grotto Beach Hermanus

“Early Rains – Grotto Beach Hermanus” Oil on Canvas 1027 x 1000
This large painting, completed in my studio/gallery during the Whale Festival in October 2011, captures a distant storm over Walker Bay towards Gansbaai. The dramatic clouds and sheets of rain dominate the composition while light and colour play across the skyscape. The wet beach reflects the dramatic sky above.

Art Exhibition, "Squared" 50 new paintings and graphics

Thursday, October 06 at 6:00pm - Sunday October 09 at 2:00pm

Artists opening reception - Thursday 06 October @ 6pm

Terry Kobus is exhibiting his latest solo art show entitled “SQUARED” at Upstairs@Bamboo. The Bamboo Gallery is located at 53 Rustenburg Road, Melville, Johannesburg. The exhibition runs for four days only from 06 to 09 October 2011. The opening reception is at 18h00 Thursday 06 October. Bamboo Gallery is open daily 09h00 – 17h00.

“Squared” is the latest exhibition of paintings by Terry Kobus and his fourth annual solo exhibition at Bamboo Gallery. Works derived and inspired from various aspects of the extraordinary beauty of his hometown Hermanus and its surrounds, this vibrant exhibition of more than 50 new works showcases this artist’s passion and unique talent.

Following on with themes from his previous shows, including his much loved Nguni Cattle and indigenous livestock, Terry now investigates the square format in various sizes from miniature jewel like works to large impressive pieces. All reveal his strong painting of the surrounding land and seascape, alongside other studies. Many of the images are complete miniature paintings themselves, yet also form the starting point for larger works. He explains that the: ‘smaller works contain vital information and source material; the basis for much of my work.’ When asked what kind of painter he is Terry replies, "I am a Colourist at heart; unexpected colour always excites me."

The artist will be available daily during the show to discuss his inspiration, vision, style and views.

Contact Details:
TERRY KOBUS 083 259 8859
Email tkobus@iafrica.com

Bamboo Gallery
53 Rustenburg Road Cnr 9th Street, Melville
Johannesburg, Gauteng

"Nguni on the trot"

Nguni on the trot - Oil on canvas - 600 x 1200mm

Fresh off my easel my latest Nguni painting. In this painting I have placed the Nguni Cow moving out of the picture plane to the left creating tension and emphasizing movement. Free brush stokes activate the background without distracting from the focus of the painting.

SOLD

Sprinkle - a young Nguni bull

Sprinkle - Oil on Canvas - 900 x 900

From the moment I saw Sprinkle, a young Nguni Bull, his soft and gentle gaze enthralled me. I couldn’t wait to put brush to canvas capturing his non threatening stance and tender stare. Keeping the background activated with bold white on white brush strokes this young bull remains the star of the painting


Contact me: originals@hermanus.co.za