It “goes” without saying, they paint for the joy of it

When you walk into Guy and Janine Goes‘ Ballito home, you are drawn into a world of art in all forms, from bronze sculptures and giant oil paintings to bonsai trees.

The former businessman from Richards Bay and his pediatrician wife moved to Ballito about four years ago and are mellowing into their retirement, paintbrush in hand.

“For me, painting it is just pure relaxation and a good challenge,” said Janine, who is also a keen bonsai artist in her spare time.

“I have this urge to paint. I cannot wait to get started and once I am going, my mind goes into a different world. I do not hear the phone ring, I do not get thirsty or hungry, I just paint,” said Guy, who gets the same kick out of writing and has published two books.

The couple have been art lovers all their lives and have an extensive art collection.

“I bought a watercolour painting of cosmos with my first salary and have just kept going since. The secret to acquiring art is to buy what you like, know where you want to put it, make sure it is an original and support local. It might be expensive, but it is a lifetime investment,” said Janine.

When Guy retired, Janine bought him ten art lessons with Olivia Maritz, which sparked an unstoppable new hobby.

“At first I was a bit nervous, but you just have to get over it and you will be surprised by what you can do. It is such a beautiful experience to discover that you have an artistic talent and that you can develop it. When Janine saw how much I enjoyed painting, she joined in,” said Guy, who was a keen sailor.

“I never imagined that I would one day paint myself, as I was told that I was no good at art at school,” said Janine with a chuckle.

The couple said painting has changed the way they look at life.

“We take in colours and shapes much more intensely. Everything I look at, I appreciate for its artistic value. I immediately wonder if I could paint that,” said Guy, who particularly enjoys painting landscapes and portraits, always adding a touch of his favourite colour – blue.

“Painting faces of people who have lived, with some wear and tear, lines and wrinkles and experience in their eyes is my favourite.”

To share their love for art and to make space in their home for new pieces, the couple will be hosting an art exhibition on the last weekend of this month, October 29 and 30 at 17 Minerva Road in Ballito. “We will be displaying our own art as well as art from local artists. This will be a great opportunity for people to buy locally made art at reasonable prices,” said Guy. The exhibition will take place from 12 to 4pm on Saturday and from 10am till 3pm on Sunday and everyone is welcome. For more info, contact Guy on 083 377 3242.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join us on BBM at 59015786
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.