East painter captures beauty of nature

Contemporary artist Nellien Brewer (64) is gearing up for a busy exhibition season, showcasing her stunning landscape art pieces in three upcoming shows.

Brewer, who resides in Muckleneuk, Pretoria east is known for her captivating oil paintings and prints that reflect her deep love for nature.

Her first exhibition will take place on March 28 at the Michael Heyns Art Gallery, followed by shows at Johann van Heerden’s Art Gallery in Garsfontein on April 6 and Spektra Gallery in Centurion on April 11.

“I’m excited to share my latest work with the public,” Brewer said.
“Most of the pieces I’ll be exhibiting are landscapes, which are inspired by my love for rural areas, farms, roads and mountains.”

Brewer grew up on an isolated farm in Greytown, KwaZulu-Natal, where she developed a deep appreciation for nature.

“I spent most of my childhood walking around the farm, taking in the beauty of the surroundings,” she said.

Her current favourite painting, a stunning depiction of a river in Clarens, Free State, will be showcased at Johann van Heerden’s Art Gallery.

“I created this piece during an artistic retreat, where I spent hours sitting by the river, capturing its beauty.”

Brewer’s passion for art began at a young age, inspired by her grandmother’s paintings and the works of Tinus de Jongh.

Despite her teacher’s advice to pursue a more “stable” career, she went on to study landscape architecture at the University of Pretoria and fine arts at Unisa.

After working for Eskom for 20 years, she decided to focus on her art full-time, supported by her husband.

Brewer also owns Huckleberry’s Restaurant in Magnolia Dell, where her artwork is displayed.

“I get compliments from customers and some even want to buy the paintings,” she said.

Her artwork is also showcased at various local exhibitions and galleries, earning her a reputation as one of Pretoria east’s most talented artists.

As an artist, she faces the challenge of selling her work, but she’s grateful for the support of her family and the opportunity to create art that brings her joy.

“I’m fortunate that I don’t solely depend on the commission from my art paintings,” she said.

“This allows me to focus on creating art that I love, rather than trying to please others.”

Brewer hopes to collaborate with visual artist Lehlogonolo Masoabi in the future, exploring new techniques and styles.

With her upcoming exhibitions and a passion for creating art that inspires, she is sure to continue captivating audiences with her stunning landscape art pieces.

Her artwork can also be found at a shop in Brooklyn called Golden Goose, which displays and sells artworks for South African artists.

“They keep my artworks there for months and take a commission when they have sold the artwork,” she said.

Her son, Dylan, is a constant source of support and encouragement.

“My mom is a great and passionate artist, mother, and grandmother,” he said.

“I’m very proud of her and I love accompanying her to exhibition shows.”

Dylan’s room is adorned with his mother’s paintings, a testament to the special bond they share.

For more information about Brewer’s artwork, visit her website www.nellienbrewer.com or www.art.co.za/nellienbrewer.

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