Pieter studied Fine Arts at the North West University in Potchefstroom, South Africa. He taught art in Johannesburg at Hoërskool Die Kruin a school for Art, Ballet, Music and Drama during the 1980’s and early 1990’s. He came to Botswana in 1993 where he acted as coordinator for the Kuru Art Project for seven years.

From an early age Pieter spent a vast amount of time in nature and developed a strong love for the birds, plants and animals. He is especially influenced by the Kalahari as he has been living in D’kar, Botswana for over twenty years. His closeness to nature is often reflected in his art in various ways.

A theme that is recurrent in his work is the conflict that he observes in nature. Opposing the brutality and violence that one notices among the animals there is also a hope for peace and harmony. The message of hope in the Christian faith where God promises to one day restore His whole creation is an underlying theme in many of Pieter’s work.

Pieter draws inspiration from the simplicity, honesty and power found in the art of children. As an art teacher, father and grandfather he has been in close contact with the way children thinks and express themselves. He is also intrigued by the raw beauty and innocence that children express in their drawings. The same spontaneity, simplicity and power can also be found in his art. Many 20th century artists such as Joan Miró, Wassily Kandinsky, Paul Klee and the Cobra Group have been inspired by child-art to name but a few.

Pieter’s work conveys strong graphic line qualities which can be seen in both his linocuts and wire-sculptures. He is highly creative and constantly experiments with different and new media bringing elements of nature into his art.

Exhibitions