Stellenbosch Atelier

nded by Vivian van der Merwe and Fiona Metcalfe in 2005. As professional artists, both with extensive experience and knowledge of South African art academia, they saw the need for a serious, independent studio in Stellenbosch. Students are accepted into the studio on the basis of an interview and preview of their art, irrespective of their previous qualifications or art background. Our student profile is varied, including students with little or no previous experience and Fine Art graduates who have completed degrees in Visual Arts. Since each student is taught individually and progresses according to the amount of time they are able to allocate to their art, there are no predetermined time-frames imposed on the studiowork programme. It is nevertheless required that each student, as they work through the programme, achieves a comprehensive and independent understanding of their own artistic practice. The programme equips each student with a thorough knowledge of painting skills and techniques, nurturing the development of individual style. It is important that each student, irrespective of their experiential level, finds their tuition and creative challenges both enjoyable and rewarding. We proudly note that some of our exceptional past students are now working as independent artists, having progressed through distinguished institutions such as the Florence Academy and others. But these achievements in no way overshadow many of our finest students who choose not to pursue professional careers in visual art. The tuition costs include:
3-hour weekly classes
Use of fixed studio equipment (easels, etc.) Certain bulk art materials
Monthly illustrated art history and art appreciation lectures. The R 920 monthly fee does not include personal art materials. A reduced student/pensioner rate is available on request based on need. In addition to the ongoing classes, guided visits to important exhibitions are conducted, periodic weekend workshops are arranged, and guest artists are invited to give special interest workshops (illustration, bookmaking, digital art, bronze casting, land art, etc.) With Jamestown becoming known as the new creative hub of Stellenbosch, attracting a new generation of artists, designers, writers and creative talents, the Atelier aspires to contribute to the unique cultural ethos of the area. Should you be interested the Stellenbosch Atelier, we look forward to hearing from you: (021) 880-2737, (082) 961-9519 or (073) 126-4751 or e-mail: [email protected]

Staff:
Vivian van der Merwe, widely recognised as one of South Africa's leading painters, has 40 years experience in Fine Art academia and decided in 2012 to leave full-time lecturing at Stellenbosch University in order dedicate himself to his painting career permanently. His work is represented in collections both nationally and internationally. His work can be seen at www.vivian.co.za

Fiona Metcalfe is one of South Africa's finest and most admired portrait painters. Her early career in sculpture gave way to painting; a decision partially based upon having children and the related logistics of more appropriate studiowork. Fiona's work is represented in collections both nationally and internationally. Her work can be seen at www.fionametcalfe.co.za

Camble Jooste, who held a full-time position as member of the support staff in the Visual Arts Department at Stellenbosch University from 1984 until his retirement in 2004, has worked for the Atelier since 2005. He maintains the studio and ensures that everything remains orderly and functional. Course outline:
Students initially work with with project-based tuition similar (in form, content and scope) to a typical studiowork curriculum in Fine Art at any South African university. The notable difference, however, is that the Atelier does not focus on the so-called 'new media' or overtly 'conceptual art' since these are very well catered for in numerous mainstream art schools, both locally and nationally. Phase 1: Foundational drawing: The initial projects focus on establishing a solid foundation in perceptual skills through a series of drawing projects. This is done to create a solid basis from which the student proceeds into a carefully conceived series of painting and related mixed-media projects. Phase 2: Painting and related interdisciplinary projects: This relatively extended and intensive phase of project-based tuition takes the student through a wide and interesting range of creative processes and approaches. Each project is specifically designed to familiarise the student with an important aspect of traditional and contemporary painting practice. By the end of Phase 2 you will have achieved a level of competence that allows you to progress to independent studiowork. Phase 3: Independent studiowork: The creation of a solid foundation in all aspects (technical, formal and conceptual) of painting during Phase 2 allows the student to progress to a completely personalised programme determined by the individual student in consultation with the teachers. The student now develops their individual style, subject matter and interests. At this stage you will be critically guided towards working independently, competently and confidently. Phase 4: Graduate programme: When a student achieves artistic independence and chooses to work independently, he/she has the option of continuing to participate on an ad hoc consultation basis. ART HISTORY PROGRAMME: A monthly one-hour art history seminar is intended to guide students through the history of world art. This fascinating journey through art adds greatly to the students’ understanding and appreciation of visual art. The main textbook used for the Art History Programme is Helen Gardner’s ‘Art Through the Ages’, a richly illustrated and award-winning volume which is prescribed in many of the world’s best universities and art schools.