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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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).
Marlene Steyn is a talented artist from Cape Town, whose work spans surreal paintings and macabre ceramics.
Marlene Steyn received her education from the Royal College of Art in London.
Marlene Steyn’s art captures themes of childlike wonder, motherhood, mental well-being, and feminine identity.
Marlene encourages viewers to delve into her subconscious through her art.
Marlene adopts a more impromptu technique when handling clay and ceramics, often finishing her creations in a single session.
Marlene Steyn’s artwork has been exhibited in prestigious galleries such as Cape Town’s SMAC Gallery and London’s Lychee One.
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.
To keep up to date with Marlene Steyn’s creations and exhibits, we can follow her on Instagram (@marlenehettie).
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