**Hidden Gems: Exploring the Artistic Brilliance of Cape Town's Own Marlene Steyn** - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

**Hidden Gems: Exploring the Artistic Brilliance of Cape Town’s Own Marlene Steyn**

3 mins read
m

Marlene Steyn is a talented artist from Cape Town, whose work spans surreal paintings and macabre ceramics. Her art captures themes of childlike wonder, motherhood, mental well-being, and feminine identity and encourages viewers to delve into her subconscious. Marlene’s work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries and she is a true example of the hidden gems that lie in local communities.

Cape Town, a metropolis abundant with natural splendor and cultural variety, provides a thriving sanctuary for inventive trailblazers. Amidst stunning scenery, local artists such as Marlene Steyn flourish, making a lasting impact on the worldwide artistic scene. This piece showcases the enthralling work of this Stellenbosch native, whose repertoire mirrors the elaborate web of her internal realm.

The Adventure Begins: From Stellenbosch to the Royal College of Art

Marlene Steyn’s creative odyssey commenced in the charming town of Stellenbosch, where she was raised amidst the breathtaking Cape mountains. After finishing her undergraduate education, she journeyed to London to sharpen her abilities at the Royal College of Art (RCA). Armed with a master’s degree in painting, she emerged from the distinguished institute as a pioneering artist, transcending boundaries and enchanting audiences across the globe.

A Cornucopia of Art: Discovering the Depths of Marlene Steyn’s Masterpieces

Marlene’s oeuvre spans surreal paintings and fascinatingly macabre ceramics, with each item infused with visual allure and profound significance. She likens her art to an archaeological dig, revealing her wishes, inner child, transient thoughts, and fantasies. Through her collections, she encourages spectators to delve into her subconscious and the multilayered aspects of her individuality.

The Human Journey: Conveying Emotions through Artistry

Drawing inspiration from various facets of existence, Marlene’s art encapsulates themes of childlike wonder, motherhood, mental well-being, and feminine identity. Her paintings frequently depict the female figure in organic and domestic environments, merging portrayals of reclining bodies with branching trees and meandering rivers. Hair-made hammocks and children on swings materialize from limbs that embrace the structures of dwellings. These images evoke both soothing and disquieting sentiments, prompting observers to face and scrutinize their own inner worlds.

Impulsiveness and Delicacy: Accepting the Ephemeral Character of Clay and Ceramics

Contrasting her intricate paintings, Marlene adopts a more impromptu technique when handling clay and ceramics, often finishing her creations in a single session. She welcomes the materials’ delicacy and transience, shaping them to defy conventional concepts of femininity. Her ceramic works showcase organless bodies and wide-open gaps, demonstrating her capacity to defy expectations while preserving an aura of mystique.

Worldwide Impact: Exhibitions and Partnerships

Marlene Steyn’s artwork has adorned the walls of numerous esteemed galleries, such as Cape Town’s SMAC Gallery and London’s Lychee One. In October, she will join forces with fellow artist Qian Qian in a two-women exhibition titled “In Her Landscape.” This showcase, highlighting their distinct creative viewpoints, will be on display until October 14th at Lychee One Gallery in London.

In Summary: Applauding Home-Grown Virtuosity

In an era characterized by globalized artistic trends, Marlene Steyn’s work acts as a powerful reminder of the undiscovered potential within local communities. Her artistic expertise, cultivated by the captivating charm of Stellenbosch and Cape Town, now enthralls spectators worldwide. As a home-grown prodigy, she exemplifies the abundance of resourcefulness and ingenuity that lies hidden beneath Cape Town’s mountains and beyond.

To keep up to date with Marlene Steyn’s creations and exhibits, follow her on Instagram (@marlenehettie).

1. Who is Marlene Steyn?

Marlene Steyn is a talented artist from Cape Town, whose work spans surreal paintings and macabre ceramics.

2. Where did Marlene Steyn receive her education?

Marlene Steyn received her education from the Royal College of Art in London.

3. What themes does Marlene Steyn’s art capture?

Marlene Steyn’s art captures themes of childlike wonder, motherhood, mental well-being, and feminine identity.

4. What does Marlene encourage viewers to do through her art?

Marlene encourages viewers to delve into her subconscious through her art.

5. How does Marlene handle clay and ceramics in contrast to her paintings?

Marlene adopts a more impromptu technique when handling clay and ceramics, often finishing her creations in a single session.

6. Which galleries have exhibited Marlene Steyn’s artwork?

Marlene Steyn’s artwork has been exhibited in prestigious galleries such as Cape Town’s SMAC Gallery and London’s Lychee One.

7. What is Marlene Steyn’s upcoming exhibition and where will it be held?

Marlene Steyn will join forces with fellow artist Qian Qian in a two-women exhibition titled “In Her Landscape” at Lychee One Gallery in London.

8. Where can we follow Marlene Steyn’s creations and exhibits?

To keep up to date with Marlene Steyn’s creations and exhibits, we can follow her on Instagram (@marlenehettie).

Previous Story

EFF Calls for Western Cape Shutdown

Next Story

Cape Town Pioneers Alternative Energy Solutions Through New Regulations

Latest from Blog

The Debate Over Starlink’s Entry into South Africa: Technological Potential vs. Regulatory Hurdles

The entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, into South Africa is facing tough challenges due to local laws that require foreign companies to partner with local investors. Critics argue that these rules slow down internet access, especially in rural areas. Supporters, like former politician Tony Leon, believe that easing these regulations could boost technology and improve relations with the U.S. However, Starlink recently withdrew its application to operate in the country, raising concerns about how South Africa can attract foreign investment while addressing historical inequalities. This debate highlights the struggle between supporting local interests and embracing new technology for a better future.

Unmasking the Veil: The Hidden Campaign of the Trump Administration

The Trump administration’s costcutting efforts, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), are shrouded in mystery, raising alarms about honesty in government. With major cuts to global aid, especially in health and education, trust in the administration is fading. Many worry that the figures reported as savings are misleading, and the lack of detailed information on contracts only adds to the confusion. As legal battles unfold, the need for clear communication and accountability becomes even more urgent, reminding us that open governance is crucial for public confidence.

Major Supermarkets Recall Heartland Foods Cereals: A Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Major supermarket chains like Shoprite and Checkers are recalling Heartland Foods cereals because some labels had wrong nutritional information. Even though they didn’t get any complaints, they want to be honest and keep customers safe. Shoppers can easily return the affected cereals for a full refund, no receipt needed! This recall shows how much these stores care about their customers and keeping food safe.

The South African Housing Market: A Journey Through Economic Terrain

The South African housing market is a tale of two cities. Cape Town’s home prices have shot up by 25%, attracting many buyers despite the rising cost of living, while Johannesburg’s prices have climbed more modestly at 12%, making it a tempting option for those seeking better economic stability. Many people are reconsidering where to live, with some returning to Johannesburg for a sense of comfort and affordability. As economic pressures weigh heavily, both cities tell a story of resilience and adaptation as South Africans navigate their changing world, searching for a place they can call home.

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget: A Vision for the Future

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget for 2025/26 is a big plan to help the city and its people. With R39.7 billion set aside, the budget focuses on making essential services like water and electricity more affordable for lowerincome families. Mayor Geordin HillLewis shared this vision on a sunny morning, aiming to improve community safety by adding more police officers and reshaping the city’s infrastructure. While some celebrate these changes, others express concerns about added costs and the need for better crime prevention. Overall, this budget hopes to pave the way for a brighter future for all Cape Town residents.