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LOWVELD ISSUE 74 | DESIGN 19 R30.00 (incl VAT)

LIVING

THE DESIGN EDITION PHOTOGRAPHERS & THEIR MUSES | LOWVELD COOKING CLASSES | EVENT DESIGNERS A DESIGNER ZAMBIAN RETREAT | CRAFTING CERAMICS | SKULL SCULPTURE | KIDS TECH

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design | dә zīn | |

to plan and fashion skilfully or artistically We have had so much fun planning and creating this edition – our fourth Design Edition. Within our pages discover a collection of Lowveld craftsmen: from photographers and sculptors to ceramicists and architects and more in between. We also explore design in kids tech, designer travel getaways, event designers and even a home designed to house an art collection.

Created, crafted and collated for your enjoyment.

Be entertained.

Stay tuned on www.lowveldlivingmagazine.com for info about the upcoming nominees of the 2019 Innibos National Craft Awards Chris Soal’s 2017 Stellar Scintillation

Some of our fave nominees for 2019’s Most Beautiful Objects in South Africa (MBOISA) at Design Indaba are….

River Love Sofa, Heino Schmitt Okapi Capsule, Yemasa

Mpho Vackier Nenzima Desk

Winner: Blue Bench, Houtlander Interdependence

Ebert Otto’s Smart Kettle

EDITOR Nicky Manson, nicky@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | EDITORIAL Nicky Manson, Kim Springorum, Penny Goodwin, Bev Tucker ADVERTISING Audrey Ford Duimelaar audrey@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | DESIGN Creative Union | PROOF READING EditPro PHOTOGRAPHY Africa Photographic Services | EDITORIAL info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | DISTRIBUTION GMF Consulting PRINTING Paarl Media | CONTACT US 076 952 7761 COVER Sculpture by Lionel Smit

@lowveldLiving

@lowveldLiving

lowveldlivingmagazine.com

@lowveldLiving

@lowveldLiving

© Copyright 2019 Lowveld Living. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of Lowveld Living Magazine or the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All editorial information contained herein is, and remains, the property of Lowveld Living Magazine and/or its writers and/or photographers. Lowveld Living Magazine, its publisher, staff and contractors accept no liability for loss or damage in any form whatsoever arising from information, submissions or opinions expressed in this publication. Public comment and submissions are published at the sole discretion of Lowveld Living Magazine. E&OE.

what’s inside play eat

go

spaces

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We showcase Lowveld photography, and explore our backyard in Hazyview.

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Sundowners galore and a roundup of Lowveld cooking classes.

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Designer products, crafting ceramics and the intricacies of skull design.

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Beauty queens and kings of the events world.

style

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Vic Falls gets our vote and a Land Rover exploration.

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Looking at kid’s tech.

kids

live A private home to house a private art collection.

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MAY 2019

Mother’s Day CONCERT In partnership with

R85 R45

Adults & Others Pensioners & Primary School Children Preschoolers Pensioners & Primary

R85 R45 FREE Adults FREE & Others

School Children

Pre-schoolers

Lowveld National Botanical Garden www.sappimothersday.co.za

Featuring: Matthew

Mole, Just 6 & Stella

Tickets available at

e

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Photo Mia Louw

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escape reality Not That I Could Tell by Jessica Strawser: A group of friends from the same neighbourhood gather one Saturday night to catch up. Wine, a roaring fire and great company are all ingredients for a great night but by morning one of them is missing.

Could her husband have killed her?

Were there problems? Just how well do you know your neighbours? Wildly exciting read. Jonathan Ball Publishers The Best Kind Of People by Zoe Whittall: When beloved teacher and town hero, George Woodbury, is arrested for sexual impropriety at a prestigious school, everyone is stunned. His wife Joan is enraged with the charges, his children are gobsmacked and the community is torn. This the story of a family trying to keep their heads above water, support each other and discover the truth. R295, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

It Happens All The Time by Amy Hatvany: A very relevant novel in today’s times. This book looks at the

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rape of Amber by her best friend Tyler. It’s a page-turner because it’s uncomfortable subject matter. Just because the victim and attacker knew each other, loved each other even, rape is rape. R290, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Together by Julie Cohen: This is the most gorgeous tale of love found and lost. Told backwards, you will fall for wildly-in-love couple Robbie and Emily. But what secrets do their past hold that must keep them apart?

Beautifully and cleverly told. Just when you think you know the secret, you are surprised again. Brilliant!

Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Beyond Reasonable Doubt by Gordon Smith: Smith is a spiritual medium who is recognised worldwide for his gift and has even submitted to various tests at Glasgow University with interesting results. Here he looks at the succession of mediums, historical evidence and his own experiences in order to prove the

reality of the supernatural. R340, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

63 days to Optimum Health by Sally-Ann Creed. Creed changed her own life and here she shows you how.

It takes your brain 21 days to forge a new neural pathway and 42 days to entrench it – hence the title. Her holistic approach is easy to follow and promises to change your lifestyle for the better. R300, Human & Rousseau.

The Cliff House by Amanda Jennings: Tamsyn has always been mesmerised by the Cliff House that sits on the cliffs of her beach

read

hometown. From sneaking in with her dad as a child for swims, to spying on the current occupants as a teenager, she can’t help but imagine that the owners have a much more exciting life than hers. When she befriends the owner’s daughter Edie, Tamsyn gets a taste for their decadent lifestyle and her passion for the Cliff House moves into obsession. Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Before Everything by Victoria Redel: This beautiful tale of friendship weaves between the past and present, revealing the lives of Anna, Molly, Ming, Caroline and Helen. The

Old Friends, who have known each other since young school children. But today, decades later, Anna is dying.

She has refused more treatment and the narrative rejoices in their shared memories, their horror at her decision, and ultimately their acceptance that their beloved friend is dying. Tender, funny, sad. R315, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Now You See Her by Heidi Perks: Your best friend asks you to look after her daughter. You take little Alice with your three kids to a local town fair.

You only look away for a second. Now Alice is gone. Your best friend won’t

take your calls. The police are at your doorstep. The whole town is avoiding you. But nothing is what it seems.

Brilliant. You will not put it down! R290, Penguin Random House.

The After Wife by Cass Hunter.

Rachel, a highflying scientist, and Aidan are the perfect couple and still madly in love, raising a family. But when Rachel dies unexpectedly, Aidan and their daughter must pick up the fragmented pieces of their lives and try to move on. But Rachel had plans and has left them her life’s work and a gift of love to help them cope – iRachel.

R295, Jonathan Ball Publishers

DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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explore your backyard Hazyview is a lush, green sub-tropical farming town famous for its banana and macadamia nut plantations. It gets its name from the shimmering haze that occurs during the heat of Lowveld summers

H

azyview is home to numerous lodges, restaurants and activities and is the gateway to the Kruger National Park, being home to Numbi Gate, Phabeni Gate and Paul Kruger Gate. Lowveld Living gives you the low-down of top spots you must visit and explore.

Skyway Trails, located in Perry’s Bridge Centre, offers the aerial cable trail and the rope adventure park. www.skywaytrails.com Numbi Airfield is home to the Aviation Adventures Flying Club. Become a member and enjoy scenic flights in a microlight. wallydaveen@mweb.co.za There are two destinations that allow elephant interactions in Hazyview. These are the Elephant Sanctuary and Elephant Whispers. www.elephantsanctuary.co.za, www.seasonsinafrica.com

The Lowveld Reptile Centre is made up of Perry’s Bridge Reptile Park and Lowveld Venom Suppliers. It boasts a varied selection of reptiles from across the globe, as well as a fascinating display of amphibians and arachnids. These include crocodiles, pythons, anacondas, mambas, rattle snakes, cobras, tarantulas, toads and lizards.

Facebook/Perrysbridgereptilepark Summerfield Rose Retreat & Spa is a 5-star luxury retreat on the Sabie River. It comprises secluded tented suites, two award-winning restaurants, a luxury spa, macadamia and litchee orchards and more. Booking is essential. www.summerfields.co.za

Lood Wentzel’s Environmental Walks on Waterberry: Lood offers ecowalks to the public in Hazyview. There are specially selected trails, which are easily accessible with unspoilt natural surroundings. The walks are easy, relaxing Artefunto Art Gallery sells contemporary art and furniture. and informative and take about two hours. Lood Wentzel: They are renowned for using a 1000-year-old traditional 078 225 9260, www.ecowalking.co.za. method of manipulating wood to create their canvases. www.waterberryhill.co.za www.artefunto.com Induna Adventures is for the adrenaline junkie. Think Skyway Trails, located in Perry’s Bridge Centre, offers the white water rafting, geckoing, quad biking, zip lining, aerial cable trail and the rope adventure park. paintball and more. www.indunaadventures.com www.skywaytrails.com There are great walking trails in the area such as the Shangana Cultural Village Tours: The beautiful traditional Matumi Trail from the confluence of the MacMac, Sabaan villages of Shangana are owned by the Mapulana and Sabi Rivers. community, who present their traditional way of life. There are various tours available. reservations@shangana.co.za Jeremy Wostenholm’s Seronera Crocodile Farm Tours: Seronera Crocodile Farm is a working farm that offers the opportunity to view thousands of crocodiles on a farm, which is beautifully treed and has abundant birdlife.

They run a 90-min tour which starts at 09:30am. Booking essential. Jeremy 083 459 0733, www.seronera.co.za

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the lowveld shoot The Lowveld has a wonderfully diverse number of photographers living and working here. On these pages we showcase just a few photography greats, highlighting their unique and different skills.

nieu

Eunice Nieuwenhuis focuses on the art of newborn photography.

INFO Nelspruit, 072 229 7444, info@nieu.net, www.nieu.net

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flash that studio Marelize Joubert specialises in glamour portraiture.

Together with Elscha Tintinger from Blazing Beauty, they give their clients a “cover girl� experience for the day.

INFO 082 440 9465, marelize@flashthatstudio.com, www.flashthatstudio.com. Elscha 081 046 1350, elscha@blazingbeauty.co.za, www.blazingbeauty.co.za

mia louw Mia has carved out a niche market in animal photography.

INFO 073 389 9761, miavanderm@gmail.com, Instagram/mia_louw_creative, Facebook/MiaLouwCreative, www.mialouw.weebly.com

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shara b photography Shara Burger grew up in Joburg but has been living in the Lowveld for over 14 years.

Having worked in game lodges most of her adult life, she now resides in Hoedspruit.

“I am a real bush girl at heart!”

With a degree in History and English behind her, she started a photography business in 2016. “I was looking for a creative outlet, which still allowed me to have other part time work and also still be a mum!

Shara B Photography specialises in weddings and family photo sessions.

“Photography allows me to be outdoors in amazing environments and meet some really incredible people,” explains Shara. Her passion for photography takes her to far-flung places of beauty in the Lowveld. She loves meeting new people and more importantly, capturing them on one of the happiest days of their lives, and creating beautiful memories for them. Working outdoors – her favourite place to be – is also a perk although outdoor photography has its challenges thanks to unpredictable weather patterns. When Shara is not behind the lens, you will find her managing the social media for a game lodge, working on projects and being a mum. When asked about her favourite thing to shoot? She says “People, people, people oh and amazing light with people!”

INFO shara@sharab.co.za, 083 455 4302, www.sharab.co.za

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kim tracey photography

Kim Tracey specialises in the beautiful art of wedding and engagement photography.

INFO 082 727 1515, hello@kimtracey.co.za, www.kimtracey.co.za

lance van de vyver food photography

Lance van de Vyver specialises in the art of food photography for restaurants, lodges and hotels.

INFO 074 207 1015, lancevandevyver@gmail.com, www.lancevandevyver.com DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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africa photographic services Hilton, Francois, Anthon and their team from APS specialise in hospitality, lifestyle and portraiture photography.

INFO Nelspruit. 082 823 6059, info@africaphotographicservices.co.za, www.africaphotographicservices.com

Sven Musica from Phonix Capture is a Corporate Advertising photographer and videographer. INFO 065 920 6588, sven@phonixcapture.co.za, www.phonixcapture.co.za

phonix capture

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play & shoot

louise meyer photographers Louise Meyer, 43, grew up in Pretoria and moved to Rustenburg when she matriculated. An exciting string of events led her to join the South African National Defence Force. “Basic Training was the most grueling time of my life, you are pushed to limits that you have never imagined possible. After training, I permanently joined the Defence Force and was appointed as a military instructor. The next three years I dedicated my life to educate and train young girls in the art of military warfare and skills.”

In 1998 Louise began her studies for a BMIL degree at the Military Academy in Stellenbosch. She fell in love, graduated, married and later took a service transfer to the SA Navy and was involved in Officer’s training. However in 2007, Louise resigned from the SANDF and became a full time professional photographer.

Louise lives in Hoedspruit, as she says “the heart of all things Khaki & Safari.” She has fallen in love with the bush and says it feeds her creative soul. So how did she move from being a marine to a photographer? Louise laughs, “It was such a funny thing. It was almost like the big bang! I attended a friend’s wedding and was particularly fascinated with the photographer and I just suddenly saw all these potential wedding images in my mind. A rush of excitement overwhelmed me and at that specific moment I just knew. That next Monday I bought my first Canon SLR camera and enrolled at Cape Town School of Photography.”

Louise’s passion is people. Her niche is weddings, specifically safari weddings and she has also introduced a new product named Safari Journaling. “I accompany groups and families and document their safari experience.”

Photography was Louise’s calling. “I believe in divine timing. That day was just a switch that was activated. My camera is just my tool, I don’t shoot with my camera, I shoot with my soul. My mission is to tap into the energy of my wedding couples and capture the authentic moments – those real “US” moments.”

So when Louise is not shooting sublimely romantic moments in time, she is busy with her luxury wedding planning company, LUJO Safari Weddings, where she plans and creates weddings for international couples. Busy busy busy… but Sundays…. those are family days, glass of wine in hand and chill time.

INFO 083 500 38 17, info@louisemeyerphotographers.co.za, www.louisemeyerphotographers.co.za DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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mila photography

Mila Photography is a fine art wedding and lifestyle photography company specialising in natural, beautiful images and focusing on the artistic side of a photograph. Mila is known for her use of natural light in images and the connections she makes with her clients. Her work can be described as dreamy, romantic and real. Photographing newborns, expecting moms, families, couples and weddings; Mila Photography is based in Nelspruit, but the team travel for any event or wedding. Let her tell your story!

INFO 073 259 5607, info@milaphotography.co.za, www.milaphotography.co.za, Facebook/milaphotographysouthafrica, Instagram/milaphotography.sa

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kids

kids kids stuff

kid stuff

The Blacksmith and the Dragonfly

by Riana Louw and Charles Siboto.

Illustrated by Christelle Lambrechts: A lovely fairytale brought to us by local authors.

Ndiliswa dreams of becoming the commander of the royal army. But she is the poor daughter of a blacksmith, who makes spears. Prince Siyabulela has never been a warrior like his younger brother.

He’s transformed into a dragonfly by a wicked spell and barely escapes with his life. Can Ndiliswa defeat the evil forces to save the prince?

R160, NB Publishers.

designer walls We love this kiddies wallpaper from Borastapeter. Named Scandinavian Designers Mini, the collection highlights Scandinavia’s cultural heritage, while putting children, play and the imagination centre stage.

A beautiful range of designs from R1139 per roll. Available from St Leger & Viney. www.stleger.co.za

Tiger Walk by Dianne Hofmeyr, illustrated by Jesse Hodgson: A beautifully illustrated story about getting over one’s childhood fears. Tom draws a pic of a tiger after visiting an art gallery. When he can’t sleep that night, the tiger in his picture comes alive and invites him on an adventure. R150, Tafelberg.

Scarface Claw, Hold Tight

by Lynley Dodd: We are huge fans of Dodd and her Hairy Maclary books and the sing-song way in which they are told is just loved by kids.

Was thrilled to see she has released a new book about Hairy Maclary’s nemesis Scarface Claw! R150, Penguin Random House.

Spelling Made Fun in Grade 1, 2 3. Compiled

by Mart Meij: The perfect tools to help kids improve their spelling skills.

Will support the school curriculum.

NB Publishers.

kids

future proof your kids Words Penny Goodwin

DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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for many parents

trying to prepare our children for what their potential ‘future jobs’ will be is a daunting task. The fact that many of these jobs are yet to be developed makes it all the harder. Overlay that with our confusion of some of the subjects that our kids are now taught at school, and what that entails, and you potentially want to run for the proverbial hills.

One of the biggest things that we need to get our heads around is that of the impact of technology on our lives and that of our kids. Mixed messages abound. Half an hour of screen time a day is all they need. No TV during the week. Tablets become an addiction. And don’t even get me started on the online gaming debate – that is best left for another day. The stark reality however, is that technology is here. It’s in our homes, classrooms, playdates, everywhere.

Fifteen years ago the iPhone didn’t even exist. So, do we need to embrace it? Yes is the short answer.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics better known as STEM is a term that has been bandied around for a long time. There is a new term though – SMAC which stands for Social, Mobile, Analytics and Cloud. Say what? Yup these two acronyms are what the experts are saying should form the foundation of what our kids are taught – along with complex problem solving, critical thinking, creativity and people skills.

Fast forward to 2030 and it’s easy to understand why.

Automation and robots may affect the job landscape, as will the growing impact of climate change, so there is a need to adapt. Knowledge creation and innovation will

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be the drivers for new jobs, with experts predicting that jobs such as cyber-attack agents, juvenile cybercrime counsellors, trash engineers, body part creators, smart home design managers, machine risk officers, algorithm bias auditors and vertical farm consultants being amongst the new jobs to be created.

It all sounds a little sci-fi doesn’t it? But it’s the reality of what is to come. So, back to the question how do we prepare our kids? Is it even possible in the Lowveld?

Thankfully yes.

INTEGRATION INTO THE EDUCATION SYSTEM Schools have recognised the need to adapt and things like Design and Technology, Robotics, Project Based Learning are being integrated into the syllabus. Below are some of the fun, interactive and creative activities which can be found at schools in the area. robotics At Curro Nelspruit, robotics has been integrated into the Natural Sciences curriculum from Grades 1 to 6, which assists learners to develop skills such as problem-solving, creativity and planning and promotes logical thinking.

They also run a robotics club for learners who wish to do more extensive robotics. They get to work in teams and are registered for the Robotics Olympiads. Here they are presented with a specific problem and they must programme the robot to perform certain movements in order to solve the problem. Students also make use of tablets in the classroom, using e-versions of existing ink-

kids and-paper textbooks. Teachers supplement these with video clips, photos, audio files, extra notes, learners’ work and homework by using the Wi-Fi intranet system at school. project based learning For Gareth Dry, Headmaster at Riverview Preparatory School, it is important to recognise the revolution in educational thinking that’s taking place around the world.

This involves moving away from a form of education developed during the Industrial Revolution in which children were processed through a one-size-fits all system, and then expected to either move on to university or into the job market. He confirms that there has been a gradual acceptance that that system is fundamentally flawed when it comes to teaching children of the 21st century. These children are the most engaged and disengaged generation ever. They have data at their fingertips and are also the most informed generation of all time. Their brains have developed to deal with this.

Hence the development of Project Based Learning or rather PBL, which blurs the lines between subjects, requiring children to apply knowledge that they have discovered for themselves. At Riverview children are placed in carefully selected groups and are given a topic.

They are expected to work under the guidance of the teacher, who is there to gently push and encourage without giving them answers, towards a final presentation at the end of the term. The children are expected to research, collate, organise and then present the information they discover. A good theme and project contains elements of all the subjects.

technology in all its forms According to the Head of Technology at Uplands College, Richard Boyle, the need to diversify their offering has led to the department introducing a new approach for Grade 8 and 9 pupils. The students now experience technology in a wider area prior to making subject choices in Grade 10.

They get to study a combination of Computer Applications Technology and Mechanical Technology for two terms then swap to Information Technology and Civil Technology for the remaining two terms.

Computer Applications Technology introduces pupils to the skills needed for future life at school and beyond.

This includes carrying out focused online research, desktop publishing skills, an ability to use, edit and manipulate spreadsheets, presentation skills using PowerPoint, and the use of Google docs to mention but a few. These skills are taught and then backed up by PBL both within the department and beyond.

Mechanical Technology focuses on how products are designed and made and how they work – exposing pupils to reverse engineering, materials science and testing, introduction to mechanical properties, manufacturing techniques and the use of standard components. The pupils get introduced to Computer Aided Design (CAD) and end up making a small product that requires a variety of workshop techniques to produce. Mechanical Lego kits are also used to reinforce knowledge and understanding. The department has also recently purchased a 3D printer, which will be used to learn about mechanical assemblies.

Information Technology provides an introduction to programming where learners are taught simple code and how to develop programmes that can control outputs. Civil Technology introduces them to the world of designing buildings. They are taught how to draw and understand floorplans, elevations, sectional elevations and more. Again PBL is used to develop creativity through mini practical assessment tasks such as redesigning the School Lapa, or developing a new Learning Centre. This also lends itself to

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3D printing in the near future. The new approach aims to produce pupils who are creative, technically-minded and can solve a wide variety of problems whilst also having fun.

LOOKING BEYOND SCHOOLS There are also a number of extramural options available for those wanting to expose kids to more of these skills. mpumalanga science & technology expo The upcoming Mpumalanga Science & Technology Expo offers a series of activities, exhibitions, lectures and demonstrations, which will be presented by various science, engineering and technology institutions. With over 15 000 participants attending in 2018, the organisers promise that this year will be even bigger. It is aimed at Grade 10 to 12 learners, as well as the general public and is positioned as a celebration of science.

INFO 13 – 17 May 2019. Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit.

Contact Sibusiso Magagula 083 477 6053, ezozweni.trd@gmail.com

kids young engineers The main goal of the Young Engineers edutainment programme is to provide theoretical and practical knowledge on basic principles in mathematics, science and engineering using motorized LEGO® bricks and other methods that produce motion.

In the Lowveld they offer two programmes. The Bricks Challenge is pitched at learners between the age of 7 and 10 years who are taught through stories and demonstrations. The highlight of each lesson is the building stage of a model that demonstrates the lesson’s subject using LEGO® bricks and Technic LEGO®. Each participant receives a Young Engineers kit, which has been designed and manufactured especially for this purpose.

Galileo Technic caters for older kids, ages 11 to 14. The focus here is on the powers and principles in physics including centrifugal and centripetal forces, the power of inertia, potential energy, kinetic energy, buoyancy, torques, fulcrum, load division, angular momentum and more.

INFO 083 399 3823, infompeast@youngengineers.co.za, www.youngengineers.co.za

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first lego league ‘Tomorrow’s innovators practice imaginative thinking and teamwork.’ This is the overarching ethos of the First Lego League or FLL. Guided by two or more adult coaches, teams from grades 4 to 8 research a real-world problem such as food safety, recycling, energy, etc and are challenged to develop a solution. They also must design, build and programme a robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS®, then compete on a table-top playing field.

It all adds up to tons of fun while they learn to apply STEM principles, plus a big dose of imagination, to solve a problem. Along their journey, they develop critical thinking and team-building skills, basic STEM applications, and even presentation skills, as they must present their solutions with a dash of creativity to judges.

The tournament is open to everyone with the local launch taking place in the first week of September.

INFO For those who are looking for an opportunity to get their kids tournament ready, free classes are run every Friday from 14h15 to 16h15 in Nelspruit. Contact: Suzanna 072 204 8873.

Tournament details: 19 October 2019 at Bergland Laerskool in Nelspruit. liezlt@pureau.co.za, www.firstsa.org

eat

eat & drink

100% Lowveld

Mosquito Coast (the drink, not the book) is the very first tonic homegrown in the Lowveld. We chat to producers Andre Okes and Claire Ellis Words Nicky Manson attractions in the world, the Kruger National Park. What do we do there?

Sundowners at a watering hole. The current gin boom has also created a market so we decided to create a complementary tonic. After many tastings with neighbours, friends and family, we believe we have created a well-rounded tonic, suitable for all hand-crafted gins. Everyone has a Mozambican memory that includes RnR and Tipo Tinto tales; we hope that Mosquito Coast mixers will create similar memories in this region.

What’s in the name?

Given our geographical location and proximity to Mozambique, Mosquito Coast was always going to be the only name. This heritage dates back to 1852 when English soldiers in India were administered quinine to cure malaria. They added sugar and

alcohol to make it more palatable and so mosquitos and tonic have always gone hand in hand.

What’s inside it?

This is a fun product, which is available in pink, blue for the brave and of course the original. It has its very own luminescent glow which is synonymous with a natural quinine from the Cinchona Officinalis Tree. Our tonic is very well balanced on the sugar /acidity ratio with a little punch of bitterness (quinine), making it the perfect mixer for a memorable sundowner. We have added natural colourants for effect but not taste.

Where can we buy it?

Mosquito Coast is available at most Tops and Liquor City in Mbombela, as well as several restaurants and various private lodges and the Kruger National Park main camp shops. We are proudly Mpumalangan and Proudly South African. Our slogan is “Taste the adventure” and we hope the Mosquito Coast mixers will not only be part of your next adventure but also help you to create new memories.

INFO 079 942 1899, andre@mosquitocoast.co.za, Facebook/Mosquito Coast Beverage Co

Photo Jolians Photography

After being schooled in the Lowveld and exploring the big wide world, Andre and Claire have come full circle back to the Lowveld. They have travelled extensively and Andre spent some time in the Champagne region of France, learning to make champagne. Here he learnt the importance of bubbles in your drink.

The famous Dom Perignon coined the phrase, “Come quickly, I am tasting the stars”, and according to Andre, so should every tonic have the right amount of bubbles. “Therefore every bottle is 200ml to ensure each portion is consistent, he explains. “And we have used glass as plastic is polluting our world.”

Why produce a tonic?

We wanted to create something unique to the Lowveld. We live right next door to one of the greatest

WIN a case of multi-coloured Mosquito Coast tonics. Email your contact details to info@ lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put “ Mosquito” in the subject box.

Closing date is May 31, 2019.

Ts & Cs apply.

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drink eat & drink

Trendsetter This month we are drinking Vriesenhof Chardonnay. Trend forecasts strongly suggest that Chardonnay will soon replace Sauvignon Blanc as South Africa’s favourite white wine. Winemaker Nicky Claasens has been tasked to take Vriesenhof into the future. “We see ourselves as caretakers of the vines and believe that if our grapes are at home in the land, they will tell their own story.” Vriesenhof Unwooded Chardonnay 2017 spent 10 months in French oak barrels, and as a result has aromas of dried pear and peach. Hints of green apple and gooseberries hover on the palate with a lingering minerality on the finish. Vriesenhof Chardonnay 2015 is lighter and bursting with fruit. www.vriesenhof.co.za

Favourite pairing Nederburg’s Heritage Heroes The Young Airhawk barrelfermented Sauvignon Blanc 2016 is described by white-winemaker, Elmarie Botes, as having, “layered flavours of gooseberries, green figs and minerality, coupled with complexity and slight creaminess. It provides an apt counterpoint to slightly spicy dishes.” The Heritage Heroes is a gourmet collection of handmade, ultra-premium wines, each individually named to honour legends who have shaped the winery. The Young Airhawk honours the late son of Johann and Ilse Graue: talented young winemaker, Arnold Graue. He loved speed, action and adventure and showed his bravery from an early age. Absolutely delish with chef Pete Goffe-Wood’s SALT AND PEPPER SQUID SQUID. Ingredients: 360g squid | Flour seasoned with salt and pepper | 20g rocket Method: Dredge the squid in the seasoned flour and drop into the deep fryer until crisp and golden brown. Arrange the rocket on the side of the plate. Place the fried squid in a pile next to it.

Jalapeno & coriander dipping sauce Ingredients: 4 egg yolks | 2 tblsp pure honey | 2 tblsp Dijon mustard | 500ml canola oil | 50ml lemon juice | 6 finely chopped chillies | 1 handful roughly chopped coriander | salt & pepper Method: Put the egg yolks and mustard in the mixer. Slowly add the oil and honey, and as it begins to thicken, add a little of the lemon juice. If the mixture is still a little thick then thin it out with a dash of water. Add all of the chopped ingredients and season to taste.

just label it Orange River’s Delush wines showcase a funky label design; a throwback to ‘70s disco. Delush wines are sophisticated, ambitious, independent and bold. The Sweet Rosé offers a cheeky fruity palate with watermelon and strawberry flavours.

Available from Rooikat Liquors.

Protea Wines are an expressive range of single varietal wines

by Anthonij Rupert Wines, named as a tribute to South Africa’s national flower, the Protea. The wines are uniquely presented in bottles each with their own pattern by award-winning designer, Mark Eisen. Discover blackcurrant, cocoa and cedar on the palate of the Protea Cabernet Sauvignon non vintage.

Available from Rooikat Liquors.

And now for something completely different… the dealcoholised Almost Zero Sauvignon Blanc offers flavours of apples, citrus, and tropical fruit. The Sauvignon Blanc is created by combining traditional winemaking methods with modern spinning cone technology to remove the alcohol from the wine. Available from Rooikat Liquors.

Hazendal Chenin is a dry white showcasing a gorgeous lemon colour. Enjoy prominent bursts of apricot and lemon, accompanied by spicy notes of ginger and nutmeg, followed by buttery toast and whiffs of macadamia nut on the nose.

Taste hints of apricot, nectarine and lemon. The finish is long and elegant, with a delicate and creamy texture. Delish with crackling pork belly. Available from boutique wine stores.

The Vinoneers Orpheus and the Raven Wooded Chenin Blanc 2015 is created from 44-year-old bush vines. The result is a crisp chenin with plenty of fruit on the palate and nose.

A lingering dry finish, it’s delicous with spicy food. Available from boutique wine stores.

Franschhoek Cellar’s The Last Elephant 2015 is a red blend showcasing blackcurrants, red cherries, cedar wood, lead pencil, and cigar box aromas on the nose. Raspberry, spice and black cherries are subtly intertwined with fine tannins on the palate. Great aging potential. Available from Rooikat Liquors.

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After tasting Lee Govender’s samoosas at a recent festival, there were only two things to do: Order some more to take home and organise a fiery and flavourful curry and roti cooking evening for mates back in Skukuza Words Jenny Chaplin

what’s not to love

about an authentic chicken curry, mopped up with a buttery roti? I can’t think of much that beats it – except knowing how to make them myself! Around 20 friends agreed and before long, we’d secured the services of Lee Govender and booked the Nombolo Mdhluli Conference Centre Kitchen in Skukuza, for a few hours on a Friday evening.

The instructions were simple. Bring yourself, an apron, a frying pan and drinks. Funnily enough, no-one forgot their drinks, but there were some noticeably absent aprons! Nevertheless, we were soon nibbling on the most amazing homemade samoosas and ready to roll up our sleeves.

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eat We were a rowdy crowd. But luckily one that was eager to learn, so Lee managed to get us under control by handing out printouts of her very own chicken breast curry recipe.

Step by step, she guided us through the process. An intro on spices – both whole and ground – had us mesmerised and before we knew it, into a pot went onions, sizzling in the lightest splash of coconut oil followed by garlic, the spices, curry leaves, chicken and water. Nope – you’re not getting the recipe – you’ll have to ask Lee for that! Two pots of curry were made, so that those not too keen on heat could enjoy all the lovely flavours too.

With the chicken curries bubbling away, we moved over to work stations to learn how to make roti. The only time I’d ever attempted it, I got as far as looking up a recipe and given how complicated it seemed, opted instead for the frozen ones from Woolies. Happily, Lee’s version couldn’t have been simpler. It consisted of flour, salt, hot water and butter. Lots of it. Quite a bit of elbow grease too. It involved some fancy finger work and rolling, but nothing too complex at all.

Work surfaces dusted with flour, we all got to work rolling our rotis, all eagerly awaiting Lee to cast her eagle-eye over them and give us the thumbs up. Armed with our frying pans, we fried our roti, then filled them with either a hot or mild curry, topped up our glasses and sat down to eat.

Amidst oohs and aahs and murmurs of ‘is there enough dough to make another roti’, there was almost silence for the first time that night. Almost. Tummies full, wine bottles empty and lots of belly laughs later, I could think of worse ways to spend a Friday night!

LEE GOVENDER’S COOKING COURSE cost R280 per person and included samoosas to nibble on, all the ingredients for the curry and roti, printed recipes and of course Lee’s expertise. Frozen samoosas, roti and spices were also available to buy. 072 998 9973.

There are numerous cooking & baking classes available across the Lowveld. Find the one that suits you best.

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OLD JOE’S KAIA, SCHOEMANSKOOF – At Old Joe’s, take a cooking class in all things vegan with the Kitchen Reset course for plant-based cooking. A oneday session where the apprehension of starting the vegan journey is eliminated by the introduction of unfamiliar ingredients and cooking methods that will ensure delicious and nutritious food for the whole family. Another class on offer is Umami Flavours in Vegan Cuisine. A one-day session, using sauces, pates, dips and condiments to achieve the elusive aspect of gastronomical eating. INFO 083 229 3751, www.oldjoes.co.za KELKIEWYN FOOD AND WINE, HOEDSPRUIT – Marita Pieterse trained as a chef at Leith’s in London and ran a cookery school in Pretoria for 13 years. She relocated to Hoedspruit last year. The one-day cooking classes are hands-on and cover themes like Moroccan, Italian, vegetarian, and more.

Every participant gets the chance to be creative while learning new skills. After preparing a feast of at least five courses together, all the cooks gather around the dining table to savour the fruits of their labour while socialising over a glass of wine or two. Classes are held at Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. Maximum 6 participants. INFO 083 306 9352, www.kelkiewyn.co.za WILTON CAKE DECORATING CLASSES, WHITE RIVER – Willemien Strydom teaches the Wilton Method of cake decorating at El Roi Guest Lodge. The kits are imported from America and there are four 2-day courses on offer. Each student receives an internationally recognised certificate upon completion of each course. INFO 082 774 9455, www.elroiguestlodge.com, www.wiltoncakedecoratingclasses.com

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CHEF N HOUND COOKING CLASSES, NELSPRUIT – Erika Meier Tholet offers cooking classes on weekdays and Friday and Saturday evenings. They include classes for kids, domestic workers, baking and French cuisine and are held at Happy Hound premises. INFO 076 307 4542, www.happyhound.org.za

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GREATER KRUGER HOTEL SCHOOL & TRAINING CENTRE – Master classes are held regulary at at the hotel school in Hoedspruit. Think Mexican cuisine, American diner, sushi and macaron baking classes. Private classes also available. INFO 082 338 7406, hello@gkhotelschool.co.za

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GEMLA HOLDINGS PRESENTS MUGG & BEAN GEMLA Holdings (Pty) Ltd., was established in 2012 as a dynamic partnership between Virginia Boshoff and Rentia van Eyssen.

They invite you to visit their flagship restaurant, Mugg & Bean, Lower Sabie in the Kruger National Park.

www.gemla.co.za

013 790 1042

eat HELEN’S CAKE CRAFT, NELSPRUIT If cakes are your thing, you’ll just love Helen’s basic cake decorating courses. Held a few times a year in Nelspruit on Saturdays from 11am – 4pm, Helen’s four-week course will have you making pretty cakes in just seven lessons. You’ll learn how to get your cakes prepped for fondant, how to prepare fondant to make flowers, how to make finger filler flowers, leaves and other gorgeous blooms and how to stack and decorate your cake with the flowers you’ve made. With just 6 – 10 people in a class, there’s lots of individual attention and the results are impressive.

INFO 072 384 4430, helenscakecraft@gmail.com, www.helens-cake-craft.co.za

ZANNAS COOKING CLASSES, WHITE RIVER Zannas offers cooking classes every couple of months, from around 6pm-10pm. For a cost of just R300 per person, a maximum of 12 – 16 people get to enjoy this White River eatery all to themselves. After a welcome drink and snack, students – hosted by owner and chef, Sue Butowsky, and guided by another visiting chef – get stuck in, chopping, stirring and conjuring up a 3-course meal which they enjoy afterwards. The menus are modern, fresh and often have an exciting twist. Think Thai, Morroccan, Indian, Italian (including pasta making) and Greek. Keep your eyes peeled on Zannas’ Facebook page or mail Sue to find out about the next event or to book a private or corporate cooking class.

INFO 073 590 8825, Facebook/zannascafe, shop@zannas.co.za

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We just love the Paintbrush Soap Rebel Walls’ new trend collection, Day & Night, from Lowveld Soap. Created with 100% consists of three daylight patterns and three dark natural oils, the soap cleans oil paint off depictions of the night. ”I want to create surrealbrushes worlds and hands. www.lowveldsoap. of patterns, inviting the beholder to various stories. co.za The idea is to constantly discover new details and tiny creatures in unexpected places,” says designer Tess Callervik, founder of fashion brand Daynight Casual. www.stleger.co.za

want Dokter and Misses launch a new collection of collectible design inspired by the creative disorder and decay of urban ecosystems. Largely consisting of sculptural cabinets in timber, steel and glass, this new body of work is called Practically Everywhere. “Smooth surfaces are interrupted by jagged lines and unconscious gestural marks,” say designers Adriaan Hugo and Katy Taplin. Currently on show at Southern Guild. www.southernguild.co.za. Buy items directly, www.dokterandmisses.com

The Crazy Puff Collection by Folli Follie showcases its new Velvet Evening Bag. With touches of velvet, leather trimmings and gun metal details, it’s the ideal accessory for any night out. R2 690, available from www.follifolliesa.co.za

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All decked out with Rhino Wood – this hardwearing, beautiful and low maintenance wood is a naturally modified, homegrown wood that is replacing the endangered hardwoods of Asian countries.

Its unique and patented process modifies sustainably grown SA pine naturally into ‘hardwood’ by using an ever-expanding range of technologies. Rhino Wood can be used for most other indoor and outdoor timber applications such as cladding, screening, fencing, walkways, pergolas, planterboxes, and bathroom wet areas as well as stairways. www.rhinowood.co.za

Trichotin Calm Sleep Tablets: Duo Calm’s carefully balanced formula promotes healthy sleep by regulating your circadian (day/ night) rhythm. Ingredients like Valerian’s calming properties de-stress the body, while Chamomile shortens sleep onset. Magnesium and Vitamin B6 contribute to physical and mental relaxation. The pill is a gorgeous silvery blue colour and comes in an attractive container. R425, available online, www.fusionlabsonline.com, or from The Aesthetic Doctors 072 893 6132.

The Form Tea Tray designed by Tom Dixon takes your afternoon tea party to a whole new level. Stamped from a solid sheet of stainless steel, silver or brass, the tea set offers delicate handmade dishes. The magnificent detail of the stepped ridges add strength and décor while the bowls are inspired by the perfectly formed wooden containers used by Jain monks for food and storage.

Available from www.cremadesign.co.za

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Darkie Designs has become the “go-to” interior design and decor business for the Hoedspruit and Greater Kruger region dealing with many of the luxury safari lodges and camps in the area, as well as exclusive private residences. As part of the onestop shop services they offer, they visit clients on site, spending time assisting them in their design choices, measuring up and providing them with general advice. They offer books and swatches for all of the major fabric houses and have their own upholstery and sewing workshop on site, as well as a retail outlet. INFO 015 817 1834, www.darkiedesigns.co.za Block And Chisel introduces its East meets West inspired furniture collection. Think velveteen upholstered sofas and lacquered sideboards.

Uplift your space. www.blockandchisel.co.za

Cape Olive Foaming Hand Wash and Hand Cream by African Skin Care: Love this combo which look almost as good as they feel. Olive oil is considered one the most ancient therapeutic ingredients, and is rich in minerals and Vitamin A and E. Available from pharmacies.

How cool is this product? Catrice Rock Couture Vinyl Black Liquid Liner 24h is rock-star ready in looks and offers a thin and elegant liquid eye line. Available from Dis-Chem.

Meraki means to do something with soul, creativity, or love; to put something of yourself into your work. Meraki Yoga is a down-to-earth studio situated in Steiltes that focuses on cultivating physical and mental wellbeing, in a comfortable, calm and fun environment. They strive to provide individualised attention through small classes, focusing on quality over quantity. You can expect fun and creative sequences, with a bit of a challenge in every class. Meraki Yoga studio offers Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin & Prenatal classes. Caitlyn is a certified yoga instructor with over 1000 hours teaching experience. INFO Facebook and Instagram@MerakiMoves, 071 161 0054 merakinelspruit@gmail.com

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WIN a 4-week beginners Yoga course, valued at R550, including a manual and 5 yoga classes. To enter email your contact details to info@ lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put “Meraki” in the subject box. Closing date is May 31, 2019. Ts & Cs apply. Prize valid for 6 months.

Designerwear – Nevills Clothing has been part of the Lowveld for nearly 40

years, and have prided themselves on great quality at affordable prices with service orientation as a priority to all their customers. Stepping into any Nevills store is most certainly a positive and memorable shopping experience and they invite you to come and see for yourself.

When shopping for international or local brands, they can assist, and over the years, have offered an in-house tailoring service for goods bought in their stores, to get that perfect fit and look, and there is nothing better than getting that favourite garment adjusted to your specific needs.

Nevills Clothing now also offers this service to outside alterations, as they know that professional and quality work is far and few between, and therefore, for peace of mind, visit the Nevills Alteration Den, available at any of the Nevills stores.

They offer all the basic tailoring needs for clothing and should there be a specific request of job required, please visit a store and they will gladly try and assist.

Dulux’s Colour of the Year 2019 is Crème Brulee.

To complement the colour, the LOVE palette has just been released, which consists of nine complementary shades that emphasise the energy and warmth of the hero honey amber shade of Crème Brulee. Best suited to urban spaces built for sharing – like hotels, residential homes, and leisure spaces. www.dulux.co.za

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calvary skulls the brains behind

Yolandi Diesel, 33, is the talent behind the intricate and extraordinary designs of the animal skull. She studied Human Resources and Labour Law and is a self-taught bone artist. Lowveld Living learns more Words Nicky Manson

Tell us about your business. I create hand carved and engraved animal skulls, bones and horns.

How did you get your name? I thought it to be very fitting, calling myself Calvary, as it is the place where Jesus was crucified.

Calvary typically means “place of the skull”. I see my art as a second chance for these beautiful animals. Skulls are, after all, nature’s sculptures, and then I give them a new “skin” and a story because in the end when we die, we all become stories.

Who is behind the company? My husband Warwick Diesel and I. He creates the steel stands, displays and brackets for my skulls.

How did you get into this line of work? I have always had a natural urge to craft and create, experimenting with different mediums like paint, mosaics and polymer clay. I have an obsession with skulls so about five years ago I decided to carve an animal skull, and from there my inspiration and love for these bones just grew into this burning passion. I actually believe they rather chose me.

What is your process? I acquire my skulls from taxidermists, or clients send their own skulls to me to be carved. I will then sketch out the design onto the skull, and start carving. A medium sized skull takes around 40 to 50 hours to complete. The finished product will then have the horns treated and polished, and the skull will be sealed with a dustproof solution. And to client preference, I like to add real metal leaf in gold, silver or copper.

How do you choose your designs? My designs are based on the size and form and texture of the skull. I also like the owner to tell me about their interests for inspiration for the design, sometimes it’s even a family name or company logo. Other than that, I let the skull guide the design.

What is your favourite item in your range? I’d have to say the American Indian design I did on a Sable antelope. The only brief I got was, “I’ve always loved American Indians” and I carved the whole skull into howling wolves in the full moon, bear paws, Indian tribal designs and feathers. That’s what I love. For the skull to tell a story!

Are you planning on extending your range? I am always coming up with new designs, and have only been busy fulfilling custom orders. I am planning on carving a whole new collection of pieces that will be available for purchase.

How can we buy your stuff? My workshop and gallery are based at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre.

INFO 072 665 7041,Facebook & Instagram/Calvary Skulls, calvaryskulls@gmail.com DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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ceramics Ceramics. If the word conjures up whimsical images of cups, bowls and vases – and yes Patrick Swayze – you are not alone! But ceramics have been reborn in recent years and the 27000 year old skill has been making a comeback and is establishing itself as a serious recognised art form Words Kim Springorum Photos Louise Muggeridge

we only have to look

at the story behind Midlands based Ardmore Ceramics, which started on a farm in the foothills of the Drakensberg by artist Fée Halsted. It has grown to be highly sought after and extremely valuable with the likes of the Queen of England and the Obamas having an Ardmore piece in their collection. Astrid Dahl, another wellknown South African ceramic artist, exhibits her work internationally, and is renowned for her delicate, clay pieces which are inspired by the botanical drawings of German artist Karl Blossfeldt.

In the Lowveld we have the exceptionally talented Bosch family, who produce a range of stunning ceramic works. And then there are some emerging new talents and Lowveld Living recently sat down with two local ceramic artists to discuss their work, what inspires them and how we can go about buying their beautiful pieces.

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F o r o u r 2 0 t h b i r t h d a y, w e ’ r e s a y i n g t h a n k y o u b y o f f e r i n g t h e i c o n i c MARCONI sofa in a limited edition leather at the same price it was when it first launched. / T H I S M O N T H O N LY. W H I L E S T O C K S L A S T.

Ts & C s a p p l y.

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This page and right: Yolande’s ceramics

YOLANDE VAN DER MERWE, a born and bred Lowvelder, was raised in Sabie. Yolande wanted to study photography after school, but her father felt she needed to study something more practical to start and she completed a computer programming course. Soon after her studies Yolande met her husband Gerhard. They married in 2002 and moved to Komatipoort, where they still live with their two sons Leo, 13, and Alec, seven. Yolande, a stay-at-home mom, longed to find something creative to do that would allow her the flexibility to be at home with the boys. Her husband’s sister was a ceramicist and so what started out as a hobby soon turned into a passion and a full-time career. Yolande attended pottery classes in Nelspruit and slowly built up her studio at home and Artisan Ceramics evolved from there. Growing up in Sabie, she spent many an afternoon going on long walks through the forest and in the mountains. “Ever since I was a child I have collected little treasures such as pebbles, feathers and seed pods.”

Yolande is still an avid collector and these treasures form an integral part of her work. You can find Artisan Ceramics at local markets around the Lowveld. “It is a great way to meet people, “ says Yolande, “and although daunting at first, my confidence has grown. I don’t have any intention of retiring and am so fortunate to be able to do something I love and that I can continue to do until I am 100. I want to enjoy what I do and keep the passion for my art, rather than be rich and famous!”

When Yolande is not in her studio creating a new piece, she enjoys painting and spending time with her husband and two boys. Working with their hands runs in the family and her husband, Gerhard, a farmer, is also a talented

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carpenter; he makes the boards that Yolande turns into beautiful cheese and snack boards.

What is Artisan Ceramics? The name is derived from the definition of the word artisan, which means a worker in a skilled trade, especially one that involves making things by hand. I make one-of-a-kind, handmade ceramic pieces and jewellery. I love that no two pieces are the same. I started making jewellery when a friend commissioned a piece and I hate waste so I always find new ways of using up the small pieces of clay to make little things such as a small spoon or a fridge magnet.

What inspires you and your work? I love the flexibility of the medium. I am interested in making unique objects and pieces that are both useful and visually interesting.

I am very inspired by nature and am always intrigued by the delicacy of leaves and ferns. I use them to imprint into porcelain to create something delicate and timeless. I also enjoy working with porcelain because of its fragility and how it takes the imprints of ferns and lace so beautifully.

The organic and natural quality of clay is wonderful because it is so crisp and light. Structure and order is not one of my strengths, which is why I feel the beauty of ceramic art is that you never know what your piece will turn out like once you have removed it from the kiln. There is something unpredictable and spontaneous about ceramic art, which fascinates me.

Where can we buy your work? You can buy online or from local markets.

INFO 079 922 0168, Facebook and Instagram/Artisan Ceramics, www.artisanceramics.co.za

SHARON ERICHSEN was born and schooled in Pietermaritzburg.

She started studying a BSC Dietetics, but decided that art was her passion and so she embarked on her Fine Art studies completing a BA Visual Arts degree majoring in Ceramics and History of Art. Following her degree Sharon packed her bags and went off on a working/travelling holiday to the UK based in the Lake District and worked in the hotel industry. On her return home, Sharon completed her Bachelor of Art Honours and then her Master of Fine Arts (Ceramics), Summa Cum Laude at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

After a stint in the banking world, she gave up a corporate career to focus on her ceramics full-time. She started selling her work at the renowned I Heart Market in Durban and stocking local shops and galleries in the area. Sharon is a former committee member of the KZN Ceramics Association and joined the Gauteng Association on moving to the Lowveld in January 2018. “It is great meeting other ceramic artists and being inspired by them as well as taking part in regional exhibitions”.

Since moving to the Lowveld, Sharon showcases her work at the BFM market. “I have had a very warm response and it was a good way for me to meet new people in the area and to force myself to try and expose my art to a new audience”.

When not working in her studio, Sharon likes to paint and spends her weekends exploring the Kruger Park with her husband, no doubt sourcing inspiration for her next piece. “The Lowveld is so diverse and the surrounding landscape is so beautiful it is hard not to be inspired.”

Tell us more about Sharon Erichsen Ceramics? I am a maker at heart. I enjoy the unpredictability of ceramics because it doesn’t always work out the way you want. That element of chance allows

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the pieces to develop and tell their own stories. There is something both spontaneous and deliberate about working in porcelain which I love.

What inspires you and your work? I take a lot of photographs on road trips that can be translated into lines.

I am inspired by creating patterns from natural lines, which express shadows of memories and personal stories. I love the simplicity of design – lines and pattern making. I enjoy working with porcelain because of its translucency. Working with clay is so versatile and I love being able to play and make mistakes. Sometimes a piece can slump or warp in the kiln and it can be both humbling and humiliating at the same time.

Where can we buy your work? My work is available through my website, Instagram and Facebook accounts. I also exhibit monthly at BFM. INFO 072Â 452 5769, Instagram/ Sharon_ Erichsen, Facebook/ Sharon Erichsen Ceramics, sharonerichsenceramics@gmail.com, www.erichsenceramics.com

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This page: Victoria Falls River Lodge Starbed Treehouse. Right: Busy busy busy at The Victoria Falls River Lodge.

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Like many people, it was on my list of places to visit “one day.” And like my fellow procrastinators, I never got around to it. Maybe because as a South African I took it for granted. After all, it’s relatively nearby compared to the other natural wonders of the world and it’s not like the Falls is going anywhere soon, so it was always put off. If I’d only known Words Bev Tucker Photos Victoria Falls River Lodge, TVFH, Bev Tucker

GETTING THERE Sadly, we don’t swan in via flying boat like the earliest air visitors in the era of romantic slow travel when, from 1947, the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) landed their first passengers on the Zambezi. Today, flights from all over are numerous and quick, and touch down on smooth tarmac at the impressive new Victoria Falls International Airport. We leave Johannesburg at mid-morning and arrive in time for lunch.

Somewhere between my first glimpse of the tidy streets of the little town ablaze with Flamboyant trees in their red summer dresses, to spotting my first pod of lazy Zambezi hippo, I am smitten. Smitten with the charm of travelling via private river launch sent by our hosts, the Victoria Falls River Lodge; smitten by the immense palm tree-lined Zambezi River; smitten with the evocative sight of spray from the Falls rising like the breath of a huge dragon.

VICTORIA FALLS RIVER LODGE “Welcome home.” They’re the first words I hear as I step onto the jetty that leads to the lodge. Greeting us is GM Roddy Meiring and his assistant Melody Matanga whose ear-to-ear smile throws itself around you like a hug. From that first sincere welcome we’re in love with the place. The staff showcase absolute professionalism alongside their infectious natural wit and warmth, while the setting on the Zimbabwe bank of the Zambezi just upstream from the Falls, is picture perfect.

Because of its location inside the protected boundary of the VF National Park, we’re cocooned in ultimate don’t-lift-afinger luxury, yet surrounded by wildlife and natural beauty.

Add the red carpet treatment that every guest receives, but which feels especially reserved for you alone, and you have an award-winning leader in hospitality.

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go group, offers guests a choice of rooms. The island version has tree houses arcing above the water in exquisite privacy, or you can opt for one of the deluxe permanent tents dotted along the riverbank. The lodge is a chic, contemporary space, decorated with design-conscious, modern safari flair. Our tented room is the size of a small house, kitted with every necessity including an outdoor shower and a plunge pool on a private deck just metres from the Zambezi.

On our first day, lunch (G&T, flawless salmon fishcakes, salad, and something delicious made of chocolate) flows effortlessly into evening and a sundowner river cruise combined with superb birding by Faithy, our qualified wildlife guide. The river at sunset is a busy place, what with hippos popping up to check out the scene, a family of ellies swimming over to the Zambian side, myriad birdlife and the many river craft ferrying guests upstream in the luminous indigo evening.

Then it’s back to the lodge for a candlelit dinner. Oh, the food. It would take pages to eulogize the menus. The important thing to know is that the chefs are highly trained as befits a five-star establishment with a demanding international clientele. Dinner is followed by a nightcap in the riverside bar. The water is now an opulent purple slipping by under a rib of moon. Africa’s wild night sounds croak, screech and grunt all around. There’s no walking after 6pm in case of encounters with the creatures making those sounds, so we are delivered to our tent by golf cart.

Here we find that the turn down has been done and the vast bed with its beautiful Ardmore fabric cushions is swathed in a snowy mozzie net. The tent’s sides are battened down and lanterns lit. It’s intoxicating to be looked after so beautifully by invisible hands. Being us, we immediately roll the canvas back up so we’ll catch the very first fingers of dawn over the Zambezi.

Waking with the earliest light on the banks of this magnificent river in such a privileged place is a memory that will last forever. Even this early, the African sky is readying herself for a humdinger. We scan for crocs then hop off our deck and make for the river, leaving bare footprints in the sand. At breakfast our hosts suggest activities for the day. We’re given a spectrum of choice.

Anything from game viewing to tiger fishing, bungee jumping off the famous bridge, helicopter flips – you name it. But Falls first timers like us have only one thought: Mosi-oa-Tunya, “the smoke that thunders.”

With Faithy at the helm we set off downriver. Having a guide to smooth the way is such a pleasure. He navigates our passage through curio vendors, tourist buses and queues at the Falls entrance and takes us through the Falls walk with a wealth of knowledge about its geography,

50 LOWVELDLIVING #74

Every space at the VF River Lodge offers gorgeous views of the river.

the river at sunset

is a busy place

VICTORIA FALLS INFO • The best time to visit if you want to see the Falls in full flood, is from February to May, after the summer rains. Bear in mind that some activities, like swimming in the Devil’s Pool and certain sections of white-water rapids, are too dangerous during high water so if you’re of the daredevil persuasion, plan a visit when the river is lower. During dry season you will also be able to see right down into the chasm usually hidden by water.

• The Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The others are the Aurora Borealis, the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro, the Grand Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef, Mount Everest and the Paricutin volcano.

• The Falls are part of the Zambezi River’s 2 574 k- length, almost exactly halfway on its journey to the Indian Ocean.

• The Falls are 1 708 metres wide and 108 metres high, making it the largest curtain of falling water on the planet. Over 5 million cubic metres of water a minute pour over the falls.

• The VF Rainforest is a unique biosphere of plant and animal life and the only place on Earth where it rains all day, every day due to the water vapour from the Falls.

• At full moon, light from the moon bounces off the Falls’ spray creating a moonbow – a rainbow during the night. The spectacle lasts from sunset to sunrise and is one of Africa’s most distinctive secrets.

• Activities at the Falls could keep you booked up for weeks. For starters, check out www.shearwatervictoriafalls.com, one of the longest established operators in town.

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The pool and gardens of the Victoria Falls Hotel.

history and the unique fauna and flora in the rainforest.

What can I say about one of Earth’s greatest spectacles that hasn’t already been said, or without sounding either melodramatic or mawkish? The best I can offer is that it’s utterly astonishing.

You round a turn in the path and there it is. The instant I saw for the first time that immense rift in the Earth, the plunging roar of water against the sheer drop of obsidian rock, it knocked the breath from my lungs and I had to wipe my eyes. It simply takes your breath away. Add everything else this destination has to offer, and you have the ingredients of an unforgettable trip. Don’t put it off for “one day”.

After a blissful few days at the VF River Lodge, it’s time to say a genuinely sorry farewell. Again, Roddy waves us off until the jetty drops out of sight. What a truly heartfelt welcome from an outstanding crew in the most exceptional setting. Zambezi Crescent really gets it right in ways that leave the competition trailing.

VIC FALLS TOWN Once you’ve ticked your way down your list of outings and death defying activities, you must spend a day appreciating this delight of a town. At only about a kilometre from end to end, it’s small enough to explore on foot and safe from crime and touts thanks to the baton-wielding Tourism Police. Visitors are its most valuable commodity, and VF works hard to maintain its reputation as an enjoyable destination.

The talent of Zimbabwean crafters is famous and beautiful curios and crafts abound in VF. Don’t miss Elephants Walk, an artist’s arcade of specialty galleries and zappy eateries like Deans and The African Cafe. In the same

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vicinity is the Landela Centre with a more rough-hewn slant, while still more work can be found in the several open-air markets.

Any VF trip must include Zambezi House a few kilometres upriver. The quixotic double storey container building rocks an eclectic Afro-chic style bearing the distinctive stamp of owner-designers, Mark Valentine and Elize van der Merwe of Amatuli fame.

Having spent the day exploring, I hear the call of High Tea on the veranda of our second host, that iconic grande dame of early exploration, The Victoria Falls Hotel. Sweaty but sated from a day of visual creativity, I wend my way home across the railway tracks that dissect the town.

THE VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL Stepping over the threshold of TVFH is to enter a time warp into a tiny nation state that has beaten off change, with all its vulgar dreadfulness, and unashamedly defends its colonial origins. The theme is clearly an immense success, which says rather a lot in itself. It is heaven.

The blue days stretch out against a backdrop of polished marble floors and a maze of passages hushed by maroon carpet. Fans whirr overhead and starched white linen salutes from tables. Deep sofas lure you to entire afternoons of sloth. Mahogany armoires gleam with beeswax. Dead royalty from a vanished empire stares down in vaulted reception rooms. On miles of shady verandas ice clinks in glasses carried on trays by uniformed staff. Residents can withdraw to the Bulawayo Room to write a thoughtful note on the hotel letterhead and commune with the ghosts of Empire Builders. Eons of green lawn are dotted with enormous Msasa trees that probably shaded Cecil John Rhodes. Warthogs graze on their knees while monkeys

lob mango pips from the clay-tiled rooftops and patient squadrons of gardeners sweep them up.

There is a piano in the Palm Lounge. At cocktail hour a pianist appears. He is dressed in a white suit and large white shoes. His grey hair is trained back in a rippled bob.

He attacks the keys to flay from them a playlist of almost recognisable tunes embellished with so many runs and flourishes that you keep saying “oh yes, it’s such and such” then doubting yourself. He plays with eyes closed. His head now flies back, then flops to his chest. Is it rapture, you wonder, or despair? He is fantastic. Singapore Sling forgotten, I’m rapt with the same delight I get from Wes Anderson movies. I imagine a script with the role, Pianist: The Victoria Falls Hotel, Cocktail Hour (no requests).

Before bed one night I stroll in the gardens, marveling at the steady roar of the Falls and slapping at mozzies. From the molasses darkness a security guard materializes. He silently presents a can of insect repellant and a gleam of white teeth. Breakfast at TVFH is legendary. Every morning the Jungle Junction restaurant lays on the expected array of cereals and yoghurt, but ramps it up with a full roast carvery, unending pastries, imported cheeses, lavish fruits, fish, enormous grills and icy buckets of champagne. For breakfast. Now honestly, how civilised.

On a Saturday when temperatures nudge 40 Celsius the only sensible thing to do is ensconce yourself at the colossal swimming pool. Lounging on cushions in the Moroccan

go pool house, you can while away the heat of the day, browse at the pool buffet where a guard with a ketie slingshot wards off sassy vervets, and keep mentally pinching yourself on your extraordinary good fortune at being here.

When the sun relinquishes its ferocious grip, we set off on foot through the clammy mauve dusk to sample some nightlife at The River Brewing Company in town.

Set in a purpose-built, steam punk warehouse, the local brew started in a Harare garage where four mates were playing around – albeit quite seriously – with home brew.

It escalated to the point where they had to go pro or pack it in. “Vic Falls is an obvious choice because of the tourist

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trade,” explains co-owner Mike Danes. “We knew if we didn’t do it here soon, someone else would.” The water from the Zambezi is renowned for its cleanliness, filtered as it is through Kalahari Sands for thousands of kilometres. Some hops and a skip later it reaches you as a glass of liquid amber.

On our last evening we head over to the popular Three Monkeys bistro featuring a bar built from an old railway carriage and a 360 deck cooled by mist spray. They make hearty meaty man-food like wood-fired burgers, flame grilled espetadas, pasta, Panini, and more. The place is a favourite with hungry young adrenalin seekers who have worked up an appetite running rapids, as well as with families with kids. It’s easy to find. Just look for the huge, neon-lit sign that reads ‘I heart Vic Falls’. It sums it up perfectly. Goodbye VF. I heart you.

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landi’s mad marathon “A few fine vehicles, some bucks and a touch of madness!”

Words Kim Springorum

lowveld living

spent an evening with Kingsley Holgate recently to hear first-hand about his epic adventures with Land Rover and his life changing trip from Cape Town to Kathmandu.

Armed with his “Talking Stick”, a wooden knobkerrie, which allows whoever is holding it to have the floor, Kingsley, the most travelled man in Africa, began his story. As he spoke, we were transported to the middle of the Kalahari sitting right beside him by the fire, drinking a hot toddy from our enamel mugs.

“What are the main ingredients for a trip like this?” he asked. “Bravery? Yes. A sense of adventure? Definitely. A touch of madness? Without a doubt. But the key ingredient is a deep sense of curiosity. Curiosity about what is around the next corner or over the next mountain.”

And curiosity is exactly what it took for Kingsley and his team to travel overland from Cape Town all the way to

56 LOWVELDLIVING #74

Kathmandu. After nearly 17 000 kilometres in 146 days and through 19 countries, Kingsley Holgate and his team completed another world-first expedition. The journey took them through Africa to the east of Europe then on to Asia, eventually making their way to the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. The journey followed in the footsteps of Marco Polo: along the branch of the ancient Silk Route, from Turkey through Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan and India.

And a trip of this undertaking would not have been possible without their two Land Rover Discoverys and the trusty Defender 130. “These vehicles seem to be born for these types of road conditions and it was their incredible handling, braking and acceleration that got us here safely,” Kingsley adds.

Of course a trans-continental adventure of this kind was not without its challenges. Some stories were truly bizarre, others properly hair-raising. Travelling along mountain

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“the key ingredient is a deep sense of curiosity” passes, where one mistake would have plunged them to their deaths. Camping on the side of the road in Armenia where a butcher pulled up with a carcass in the boot and proceeded to chop up the “nyama” for their braai that night.

Memory makers.

“Our biggest challenge was, without a doubt, the amount of paperwork that was needed to be completed and certainly some of the security issues were a nightmare,” explains Kingsley. “Spending three hours being searched by Indian customs officials, including being driven onto ramps to check for explosives was exhausting. But Africa taught us to be patient.”

Aside from these challenges, Kingsley and his team were blown away by how friendly the locals they encountered were and the overriding Ubuntu of the people in each country.

Of course these expeditions are not just for the adventures, the thrill of the open road and the road trip of a lifetime. Kingsley and his team carry the message to, “save and improve lives through adventure”. The team work tirelessly to distribute life-saving mosquito nets and raise awareness about malaria. They provide reading glasses to the

elderly and poor-sighted through their Rite to Sight project, and they promote their life saving LifeStraw campaign. This particular overland expedition had a very special message. In Nepal, the team handed over half a million pieces of artwork and messages of solidarity against rhino poaching from the children of South Africa. These were handed to children living near the Chitwan National Park, as part of the Foundation’s partnership with Project Rhino. “Not only were we blown away by the beautiful artwork, but the clear message that the children sent, which is one of zero tolerance when it comes to rhino poaching.”

Kingsley’s mesmerising talk ended with a symbolic ritual.

Before leaving Cape Town, the team collected Atlantic seawater from the Cape Town harbour in their Zulu calabash.

This was emptied at the end of their trip at a Buddist shrine in Nepal. Kingsley and the team returned to South Africa with water from the Ganges River and emptied this water on the showroom floor to mark the end of this incredible journey.

To conclude, Kingsley’s overriding message was … “Africa – sure it’s not perfect, but it is such bloody good fun!”

We are very curious to see what Kingsley and his trusty Land Rover will conquer next.

DESIGNISSUE | 2019

57

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live

live & work

designer

keepsake 4 Keep Sake is a printing and laser company that is changing the design landscape of the Lowveld Words Nicky Manson

Front: Elsa Lategan, Jan-Hendrik Lategan, Gloria Sifunda (creative operations), Monicque Weweje (graphic designer), Hayley Hougaard (reception) and Charney Jooste (graphic designer).

Group photo Kerry Wiehman, MamaRazzi photography

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4 keep sake

specialise in wedding and event stationary. They create laser cut projects according to their client’s needs. Each client and project is unique and no project looks the same.

“We are a creative team that thinks out of the box,” says Elsa Lategan, co owner 4 Keep Sake. “Everything we do, from the design of the product to the manufacturing, is done at our premises.” Elsa has always had a soft spot for paper and its creative outlet. In 2006 she opened a shop for scrapbooking, which she loves. A year later she helped a desperate bride with handmade invitations. The bride told a friend who told another friend and the next thing you know, Elsa had an allnew wedding clientele.

“My husband Jan-Hendrik is a sales analyst. He looked at our business and decided to buy our own printer and laser cutter. We closed the scrapbook shop and our focus shifted to personal design, printing and laser cutting,” explains Elsa.

Elsa and her husband, who also has a graphic design background, are now a formidable team. Elsa’s ideas are mostly dictated by her clients although she is always ready to give her input. “Each bride has a certain mood and feel on how they want to express their wedding. I like to sit down with them and get to know them better. We like to create wedding stationary for them to suit their personalities,“ says Elsa. “Your wedding invitation is the first thing your guest will see – and it is important that the stationary set the mood and make a statement for the wedding.”

The 4 Keep Sake team’s planning is strategic. “If we have a theme and colour scheme, we will spend hours creating a mood board. On the laser side, it is more important to be practical. It is more technical to draw something on the computer and to make it work after it has been laser cut. It is also a challenge to receive a client’s Pinterest idea and make it a reality.”

The team love designing stuff for events. From signage, invitations, and stationery, they enjoy working with other creative forces like event planners and photographers. They also enjoy the lighter side of life. “We create stationary for kids too. From invitations to cupcake toppers and everything in between,” laughs Elsa. “The kiddies stationary is my happy place.”

“Because we do such a wide variety of projects including engraving and large format printing, we struggled to find a suitable slogan to sum up what we do. We went public and asked our customers – they came up with – ‘your imagination our creation!’“ INFO 10 de Villiers Street, Sonpark, Nelspruit.

013 741 3666, www.4keepsakes.co.za favourite design projects Summerfields’ new gin label, Duke.

Duke Gin box and mobile gin bar branding A 3D lightbox sign for a restaurant.

Lowveld Living Magazine’s year-end function 2018 DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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magic makers

live & work

Like magicians, AVS swoop into an event, create magic, and then like an optical illusion, they are gone… Words Nicky Manson

K

yle Nel joined AVS (then called Audio Visual and Sound Hire) in 2005. It was a natural progression says Kyle. “I was a part time DJ for small parties, which were usually supported by AVS.” Kyle remembers fondly being completely overwelmed by a massive projection screen and speakers as tall as him at Riverside Mall. “The sheer scale of it all had me hooked,“ he laughs. “I introduced myself to the team and passed my contact details across on a hand written note. They were popped into someone’s back pocket, most likely to be devoured by a washing machine in the days to come.”

Just as his aspirations to play with the big kids and the cool ‘toys’ started to fade, he received a call from Sakkie Coetzer asking when he could start! “Upon arriving at AVS, I had no idea that this ‘new job’ would later become my life,” says Kyle. “I started at the bottom of the food chain, cleaning cables and gear and learning as much as I could as quickly as possible. I was having a blast and had no issues with the crazy hours or the people I was working with.”

Except maybe Sakkie, he admits. The future business partners clashed in the beginning. “Sakkie had been there for four years already and was a hard worker to boot. He was ranked higher in the food chain and I was having none of it.”

Audio Visual and Sound continued to grow. “Some people stayed for the long haul and others were just visiting,” explains Kyle. “Some of the original staff from before 2005 are still with AVS today. After seven years, Sakkie left to pursue his dream of owning a production company and bought a small existing company in White River. He started Lowveld Sound Promotions abbreviated to LSP – “This industry is full of three letter acronyms for names….” laughs Kyle.

Sakkie meant business and made his presence known in the Lowveld with Audio Visual and Sound keeping a sharp eye on him.

Thinking out of the box is part of the deal 62 LOWVELDLIVING #74

live & work WHAT DOES AVS DO? AVS supplies full technical event production solutions from concept to execution. They handle the structural components, sound, lighting, visual displays and special effects equipment and their 80KVA generator ensures the show will always go on. They boast a large inventory of gear ready to be loaded and rigged any time of the day or night for any occasion – weddings, conferences, launches, roadshows and concerts. “Thinking out of the box is part of the deal.”

A few years later Kyle was presented with the opportunity to become part owner of Audio Visual and Sound Hire. “This prompted a meeting with my parents over a cup of tea, during which I announced my plans and commitment to the industry. After some deliberation and natural concerns, my parents, to whom I am forever grateful, agreed to help fund my plans,“ says Kyle. “I would have to pay them back with interest but nothing would stop me and by June 5th 2011, I became a business partner with Andrew Bullen from Dougs Hiring.”

This is where the real fun began, says Kyle. “I had to learn the dynamics of business the hard way by bumping my head many times. I am very grateful to Andrew for the mentorship role he played.” Andrew sold his shares to Kyle in 2014. And now it was time for change! A fresh look, a new logo and new acronym emerged.

LSP and AVS were now working head to head. It took some time but a meeting was inevitable. “We were trying to get to the same destination via two identical but separate roads,” says Kyle. First they started buying equipment together but still continued to work independently. “It was like cross-fit for businesses, getting leaner and more efficient is not always pain free but worth it in the long run.”

Then in June 2016 the merge was complete. With the buy-in from staff, accountants, families, banks, pets, attorneys, friends and significant others, the next step was moving in together. “We decided to keep the AVS brand and shut down LSP, as we both had been involved with AVS in its early phases and it felt like a full circle,“ says Kyle.

Today in 2019, the business owners have come along way. They have their own families now, a large team to look after, an extremely rigourous and busy event calendar and an even bigger following in the industry. A true Lowveld success story. Magic!

THE TEAM High-tech equipment means nothing without competent staff at the helm. The staff are highly dedicated to their craft in spite of the crazy hours and impact on personal lives. “We owe them a great deal of thanks for all their patience and support on this journey,” says Kyle. “Merging two businesses is no easy task and their unwavering passion for what they do has definitely made the process easier.”

THE FUTURE OF AVS? AVS continue to focus on internal development and the growth of the brand.

“To do our part for external development in the community, we have taken in our second batch of Unigrad students who are able to complete their practical hours under AVS’ guidance while gaining real world work experience,” explains Kyle. “With this in place, we aim to create employment opportunities for these students post-graduation in a range of specialised avenues.”

WITH THANKS Kyle and Sakkie wish to thank all of their clients, many of whom have become friends, for their support throughout the years.

“Relationships are key to our success and we encourage anybody who hasn’t yet visited us to do just that and have a proper cup of coffee and tour of the AVS machine.”

INFO Unit E Murrayfield Place, 30 Waterfall Avenue, Riverside Industrial, Mbombela.

013 7527782, info@avshire.co.za DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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live & work

abracadabra

When it comes to creating an unique look for your event, Magic Function Hire is your one-stop-shop for equipment and dĂŠcor rental Words Nicky Manson

64 LOWVELDLIVING #74

Congrats Innibos on your Fiesta

Award for Best Festival of the year.

live & work “

W

e have searched far and wide to bring you a wonderful selection of décor elements that will allow you to transform any venue according to your personal vision,” explains Magic Function Hire owner Nicolette Valentyn. In a competitive industry Nicolette has to make sure she stands apart from the rest and creating her own one-of-kind furniture helps her to do this. “We pride ourselves on the unique equipment we stock. We love new trendy equipment and every year add popular items like coloured glasses, gold cutlery, flower stands, unique cocktail tables and more.”

Lowveld Living chats to Nicolette about the ins and outs of the event décor hiring business.

How did you start the company? Wow, where to start.

I started working in the industry in 2004 for Ron’s Hire. I worked for them for nine years. In 2013, I needed a change so I bought a kiddies party franchise called Monkey Magic Kiddies Parties. But soon after, my biggest client from my old company, Innibos National Arts Festival, contacted me to take over their contract, as nine years of experience, blood, sweat and tears, had made me quite the expert in the field of festival setup and logistics. So, before I knew it, I had a full blown function hiring company and was bursting out of my garage. Four years down the line and Magic Function Hire is growing every year.

Where do you source your décor? We have a wide selection of companies we order equipment from across SA. We also support local business by sub-hiring their services and equipment. But by far the most exciting part of our equipment is the custom-made stuff. I am lucky to be married to a carpenter, Bruce Valentyn, so he has made us the most beautiful furniture.

Where do you keep everything? We are situated in Riverside industrial, 1 Rapid Street, Nelspruit and are open Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm.

Why décor and events? I just love the industry; it is so colourful; each function is unique and has its own personality.

I am a bit of a workaholic so the fast paced, unpredictability of the industry is just up my alley. I love the logistical side of it all; it challenges your boundaries all the time.

What do you love about events? The end result, I love my

client’s reactions. To see a little kid in love with their party or a bride’s happy tears on her special day makes it all worth while.

Do you get involved in the planning of client’s events?

Yes we do; it is almost a given in our industry. There is always a client that doesn’t have the time and needs us to plan it all.

What is your personal style? I like a contemporary style – simplicity, subtle sophistication, the deliberate use of texture and clean lines. I like space, so less is definitely more for me.

Favourite colour scheme for an event? I have so many, but my favourite is navy, maroon and gold.

Advice for clients when it comes to hiring stuff? If you can’t find something in the catalogue, ask us. We purchase new décor on a regular basis.

Favourite part? The planning.

Most challenging part? There are just too few hours in a day, sometimes we wish we could hit the pause button.

Top three events? Innibos National Arts Festival – by far my biggest achievement. We do all their equipment hiring for their event. This is my 16th year. Adam & Landi’s wedding on their family farm. It was just breathtakingly beautiful.

We used our designer gold cutlery and Lush signature floral styling did the flowers; it was amazing. Kiddies parties – You have to love them; the excitement and joy is contagious.

THE TEAM Nicolette Valentyn – owner. nicolette@ monkeymagic.co.za Jennifer Bierman – Kiddies party planner and every kids’ hero. Jennifer has been with me for start up so she can basically do it all. She will go out of her way to make your day special. nelspruit@monkeymagic.co.za Uné Ferreira – Wedding planner and logistical guru. Une has been with us for three years and has quickly made her mark in the industry. She waves her magic wand to get all your equipment to you on time. info@magicfunctionhire.co.za, Gail Placereani – She works with our accounts, but she can still teach us all a thing or two. INFO 013 0101245, www.magicfunctionhire.co.za

DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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live & work

trailblazers What happens when a floral stylist and a restaurant and hotel events manager join forces? A big bang of course. The result is Nova – Latin for new bright star – and superbly fitting for this dazzling duo Words Nicky Manson Event photos Anthon Wessells, Africa Photographic Services, Nieu Photography.

Portrait Flash That Photography

66 LOWVELDLIVING #74

W

ith decades of experience in the event planning and décor sphere between this dynamic pair, it was a natural progression for Jana Vincent and Sarah-Marie Snyman to join forces. Jana was the Sales and Events Manager for Seasons in Africa for Mpumalanga and Mozambique while Sarah-Marie Snyman is the owner of Lush Signature Floral Styling. Since teaming up they have not looked back and have quickly become the bright star among event planners in the Lowveld.

The Lowveld is competitive... and the twosome work hard to succeed. “To create a truly memorable event you need to be creative and organised,” explains Jana. “Often the most creative minds are not the most organised, so combining our strengths and talents means that we can dream up amazing concepts but also execute them to the finest details.”

Jana is originally from Klerksdorp. After completing her studies in Tourism management, she spent a few years travelling and working abroad.

coach on

the couch

by Melody Tomlinson (Business Coach, Qualified Consciousness Coach (2008), COMENSA Member)

Procrastination: As a coach, a very popular and common theme is that of time management and the habit of procrastinating. The best of us are likely to procrastinate about certain things in our lives. Here are a few questions you may be asked by a coach to help you overcome this debilitating habit:

What specific things are you most likely to procrastinate about?

What specific time of the day, month or year do you notice yourself putting off things more often?

What immediate benefit are you deriving from procrastinating?

What are you afraid you will discover or encounter when you engage with the task you are evading?

A coach will gently support you in shifting from ‘stuckness’ to freedom to move forward with ease, by asking you questions, creating awareness and opening you to a variety of new possibilities.

May 2019 be a year of bold and inspired action.

• • • •

top three events • The Lowveld Living Magazine year-end function was a memorable one –

food trucks, live music, great atmosphere and loads of colour.

The Sappi Mothers Day VIP area is always a highlight on our calendar.

The launch party for New African Development’s Acornhoek Mall was a showstopper.

After every wedding we feel that this is the one… until the next wedding.

• • •

Cell: 082-888-9676 Office: Regus. Nelspruit mel@performancebooster.co.za www.performancebooster.co.za

live & work She moved to the Lowveld in 2012 and begun work at Magnolia Restaurant. Sarah-Marie and her family moved to the Lowveld 31 years ago when her parents bought a Spur. After studying consumer science at UP she returned to the Lowveld and opened Cicada Restaurant at the age of 23. She then started Kuzuri Restaurant. Her passion is flowers and she begun doing flowers for friends and family to keep busy, which quietly saw the start of Lush.

The talkative pair love the adrenalin rush of events and the opportunity to bring people’s dreams to life. “We get to play a small part in our clients most precious and memorable life events,” says Jana. “It makes the hard work, meetings, and late nights all worth it!”

Nova offers wedding and corporate event planning. From concept design, gifting, and the sourcing of décor to the styling of the events, they cover everything from product launches, conferences and team building exercises to much much more.

The best part about planning an event explains Sarah-Marie is the choice of brilliant service providers available to them. “The Lowveld is blessed with some of the most talented, creative, hardworking and innovative service providers. We love brain storming and collaborating with them. Local is lekker.” Of course, every event has its challenges, of which budget is usually the biggest. “Aligning a client’s budgets with their expectations is never easy, but creativity and resourcefulness win the day!”

68 LOWVELDLIVING #74

QUICK-FIRE Q&A What creative stuff do you do in your free time?

JV: Sewing, arts and crafts and I’m quite famous for my Christmas gnomes.

SM: Flower arranging, cooking and painting.

What’s your personal style?

JV: Earthy and toned down with lots of texture and pops of mustard everywhere.

SM: Arty, eclectic and colourful…. more is definitely better.

Favourite colour scheme for an event?

JV: I’m a fan of clean lines with shades of greens and natural elements.

SM: They don’t call me the queen of colour for nothing.

TEAM MEMBERS? Just us and on set-up days we are joined by Tommy Nsingwane, Ruth Mathebula and Tanya Potgieter – they are our right and left hands. INFO Jana 081 4422152, SarahMarie 082 908 2902, novaeventplanners@gmail.com

spaces

Gambit and Bailey – two very courageous and hardy city-raised ridgebacks.

the gallery spaces

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y

spaces

An artistic space for an art collection

Words Nicky Manson Photos Hilton Kotze, Kyle Lewin, Africa Photographic Services

Pro-Finish Projects BESPOKE INTERIOR DESIGNS

spaces

“We love our sculpture by Lionel Smit. It takes centrestage in our home, alluding to our strong love of art as you step into our home.�

A Sense of Place A solo exhibition

by Karin Daymond

Landscapes and Lichens from the Lowveld, Limpopo and Beyond

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the owners of

this home secured a property with a breathtaking view on the unique Eden Nature Reserve. But they had a dilemma to overcome – maximise views with large open spaces, yet still have lots of walls for art and placement of sculpture. They love the old-school traditional design of farmhouses with expansive stoeps, so the idea of a contemporary farmhouse was their foundation to start.

Their brief to the architect was all about organic, understated elegance.

“Architect Joe van Rooyen understood our vision and interpreted our thoughts with four contemporary barns merged with each other to create an indoor courtyard – our own gallery as it were – which gave us many solutions from an art viewpoint,“ explain the owners. “Another example of Joe’s interpretation of our brief was the simple luxury of extra wide corridors, with a bonus of a beautiful view at the end of each corridor.

Over three years of design and build, we forged a remarkable friendship with our architect and his team who shaped our vision to live more simply yet luxuriously, with nature predominantly in mind.” It was also important

Opening Saturday 6 April 12noon

Opening Speaker: Duncan Butchart Author, Illustrator, Naturalist Walkabout Saturday 27 April 10.30am Exhibition concludes 28 April For more information contact Dana MacFarlane on +27 82 784 6695 White River Gallery Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre, cnr Hazyview and Numbi Road Gallery Hours Monday to Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday & Public Holidays 10am - 2pm

spaces

for the couple to have an interconnectivity of the living spaces, natural ventilation and movement of air, protection from the weather elements in the exposed location of the home (effectively on top of an enormous granite dome) and a maximisation of the outdoor space and views. And let’s not forget a space to house the owner’s extensive and magnificent art collection. No easy feat. “We are both passionate about carefully considered design, which should blend functionality and practicality with a strong sense of aesthetic.”

So many homes have rooms that are never used, here every room is fully used. “We do not have many rooms but those we have are big and are used extensively.” Each room and open space has been well thought out and crafted.

From the enclosed courtyard – a haven for sculpture – to the bar area with its metallic mottled backwall. From the expansive clean and white kitchen contrasted by the moody dark living room, to the outside entertainment area,

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playing one-upmanship with the devastating views that come from the house’s lofty location. Even the bedrooms have been designed with privacy, comfort and style in mind. “Our favourite room is our bedroom, which is selfcontained, allowing us to cocoon in solitude while the rest of our home gets on with the rat-race. It has a magnificient view and comfortable linen.”

The home’s furniture is a mix of old and new pieces.

Favourite pieces are from La Grange, Tonic, Gatehouse, Weylandts, and Mr Price, and sit alongside older pieces that have been sourced through family, fairs, and travel finds.

The colour palate is a mix of dark and light, emphasising warm and cold tones in different places. “We used dark colours inside our home to frame the views – the views seem so much more powerful when seen with a dark frame.

This is also why we painted all our patio ceilings black, allowing the colours of the view to be bolder than the receding dark colour.”

“We do not believe in buying an artwork for a specific space.�

spaces It is incredible to think that we live on a piece of land that was previously almost untouched through human intervention – we consider that a special privilege so we wanted the home’s footprint on the land to be contained, with as little impact as possible.

The Lowveld has a way of revealing its secrets and charm slowly – it creeps under your skin.

We still pinch ourselves every morning to think we live on this little piece of paradise.

Whilst the views outside take centre stage, inside the house, it is the kitchen that rules the roost. The eat-in kitchen is a working living space, where everyday life takes over. “So much happens in it,” says the owners. “Preparing of meals, entertainment, work, homework. We sit down for almost every family meal together, so it is truly the engine room of our home.”

Beautiful art hangs on walls and unique sculptures are proudly displayed across the space, inside and out.

Each artwork tells such a specific story, explains the pair.

“Each one reminds us of a time and place as to how it was acquired. Each gives us great joy in its own right so it is hard to define a favourite.

“However, we love our sculpture by Lionel Smit, a gift to my husband on our 10th anniversary. I managed to secure this piece months earlier and had it hidden until

the big day. It takes centre-stage in our home, alluding to our strong love of art as you step into our home. Another favourite piece is a small block canvas print called Home Sweet Home, purchased from the Spar at Crossings, whilst we were building, clearly a yearning for our home to be finished. It has pride of place in our sitting room.”

So does the art complement the space or the space complement the art? “Both,” laugh the owners. ”We had walls designed to accommodate existing artworks such as Phillemon Hlungwane’s Qunu drawing. We love buying art and then deciding where to place it. We will juggle our walls and home to accommodate a much-loved piece and we often rotate our art. We also don’t believe the old adage about the matching concept; we feel that furniture or artworks that we truly love will somehow work together as they reflect who we truly are – in that is the common thread.“

The shape, size and positionof the swimming pool was influenced by architect Joe who saw the pool as a simple. linear garden,whilst Gregory Thompson determined the finishingtouches of granite and black tiles.

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design profile

Gerhard Jooste Architects

the design

of the Weir properties by GJ Architects was dictated by the site. Being very well placed from a visibility point of view on Government Boulevard gave them the opportunity to design a building which was to be a focal point at the end of Government Boulevard on the opposite side of the Government Complex.

The Government Complex, with its solid face brick dome structure, anchored the building onto the rocky site next to the river.

The Weir Development had to be in stark contrast to this in order to stand out and have its own personality. The design had to be light and kinetic; it had to float above the site rather than be anchored onto it. The movement of the traffic below had to be reflected in the building. A servitude, cut out of the site, for a transformer room, made the most visible corner of the site almost unusable. To add to this, the entrance to the site is at the back, out of a service road. In order to attract people to the building it had to make a bold statement and also be very visible. The design of the roof not only mimics movement but also builds up towards the corner and gives the building the prominence it deserves across from the Government Complex. Set in a light industrial environment, the design, whilst still having a strong language of its own, had to form part of the urban landscape.

INFO The Design Centre, Gerhard Jooste Architects cc, 1st Floor, Suite 2, Mbombela. 013Â 752 5779, admin@gjarchitects.co.za

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Förtsch Associates Architects

Reiner Förtsch and his team were responsible for the design and build of Simbavati Hilltop

REINER FӦRTSCH 082 852 7973 013 752 2583 reiner@fdparchitects.co.za

SIMBAVATI HILLTOP TENTED CAMP simbavati hilltop Simbavati Hilltop is a tented camp in the Timbavati Game Reserve on the site of the old Motswari Mbali hunting lodge. The main complex is placed

is a tented camp in the Timbavati Game Reserve on the site of the old Motswari Mbali hunting lodge. The main complex is placed amongst the old trees left on the site once the old structures had been demolished. The small camp has eight bedroom at aonce lower overlooking Nhlaralumi River bed. linked a timber amongst thetents, old treeswhich left onare the site the level old structures had beenthe demolished.

The small camp hasThey eight are bedroom tentsbywhich are at adeck lower walkway to the main complex.

The camp is on a west facing slope and is quite exposed to the setting sun, and level overlooking the Nhlaralumi River bed. They are linked by a timber deck walkway to the main complex. The camp is on a West facing slopeit was shaded areas the different theforday. client’s wasThe to make the was most and isimportant quite exposedtotocreate the setting sun, and it wasforimportant to createtimes shadedofareas the The different times brief of the day. client’s brief to of the views, yet keep the camp compact and relaxed.

Due to environmental restrictions, the structure had to make the most of the views, yet keep the camp compact and relaxed. Due to environmental restrictions, the structure had to be completely be completely theasfootprint asbedroom small astents possible.

Theinbedroom were placed in the removeable andremoveable the foot print asand small possible. The were placed the positiontents of the previous rondawels, so asposition to keep theof the previous rondawels, so as to keep the impact on the natural environment to a minimum. impact on the natural environment to a minimum.

INFO 082 852 7973, 013 752 2583, reiner@fdparchitects.co.za

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design profile

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25 5 0

ORBiC were responsible for the design and the build of the Mpumalanga High Court.

The design aimed to challenge the brief of a ‘High Court’ and interrogate the compilation thereof. In order to achieve this, two questions were asked: “What does the face of justice look like when manifested in a building? What are the experiences of users and visitors of this building that should be designed to reflect the values of justice?”

Although physically separate, the holistic functioning relationship between the Court (C) and Admin (A) building is represented through effective shared space and metaphorical linkage. Designed as a single mass, the Admin Building was put on a larger scale to credit the administration of the legal systems in place to serve and protect the court proceedings within. Emphasising this, the roof of the Admin Building shields the shared space between A and C and embraces the court. The Court Buildings, known as the six coloured building blocks of justice, encompass the 12 courtrooms and sit on a reduced scale that reflects the public and their need to be safeguarded. Each of these buildings are unable to serve a purpose alone but together they enable and promote equality and justice.

ORBiC INFO: 013 757 0029 Unit 07 Riverside Circle 9 Water Lily Turn Riverside Park X12 Mbombela

EMAIL: admin@orbic.co.za INSTAGRAM orbic_architects DESIGNISSUE | 2019

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restaurant & venue guide

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restaurant & venue guide

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A two-night bed and breakfast stay at Goodersons Kloppenheim Country Estate Hotel

Sign up to the LL experience and the latest copy will be delivered to you. For only R216.24, you will receive a year’s subscription of six editions of Lowveld Living Magazine. Subscribe in the months of April and May 2019 and you stand the chance to win a two-night stay in a lakeside suite including a sumptuous breakfast each morning and the use of the Kloppenheim facilties.

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he estate is situated in the heart of the Highlands meander, near Machadodorp and just outside Dullstroom, only 2-3 hours from either Joburg or Pretoria. Enjoy the beautiful accommodation with wonderful views of the estate – ideal for a family holiday or business stay.

Choose from a lakeside suite, an estate room or one of the 6-sleep self-contained cottages on the property. Delight in the culinary genius of Kloppenheim’s chef and enjoy breakfasts on the terrace, light meals at Teddy & Tankard Pub and dinners in The Triple Twigs Restaurant.

Kloppenhein offers six dams of which four are well stocked with trout. Other activities include conference facilities, a wellness centre and a wedding venue. Get outdoors with golf, hiking and running trails, archery, volleyball, mountain biking, horse riding, tennis, bowling, game and bird spotting and swimming. On the property you will also find game, zebra, wildebeest, red hartebeest, blesbuck and rhebuck. INFO 013 256 9148, klopres@goodersons.co.za, www.goodersonleisure.co.za/kloppenheim TO SUBSCRIBE: CALL: 079 523 4671 | EMAIL: lowveldliving@gmfc.co.za Ts&Cs: The prize excludes: transfers to and from the Lodge, lunch & dinner and beverages.

Bookings are subject to availability. Magazine: Rate applicable to one-year subscription of six editions at R216.24. Processing of the subscription may take up to a week.

88 LOWVELDLIVING #74

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