people | style | travel | design | food R34.99 0NMUSE7 artist david griessel designer pool party meet rosendal shark saviour chris fallows go glamping virtual wine tasting artist david griessel designer pool party meet rosendal shark saviour chris fallows go glamping virtual wine tasting hello spring
Words Jenny Chaplin
Laid out on the boardroom table, is the plan for the hotel. It’s long – stretching from one end of the 18-seater to the other – and it gives one a beautiful overview of this massive project situated on Hoedspruit’s outskirts and adjacent to Zandspruit Bush and Aero Estate. Besides the sheer size, what strikes me about the plans are the number of trees on it. When Gerrit Jan explains that every tree on the plan is actually a living one and that the hotel was built around them, I begin to realise, that like Gerrit Jan, there’s more to this hotel than meets the eye. “For quite some years we have been developing safari homes on Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate. The hotel site was already part of the Greater Zandspruit Development upon approval back in 2009. Since then we approached a number of operators to run it for us and eventually signed with the Radisson Hotel Group, an international hotel operator currently operating over 1500 hotels globally. Besides the fact that they’re really good at what they do, we like their aim of being 100% CO2 neutral by 2030. We also enjoy the look and feel of their properties, which is modern but not cold. With our proximity to the Kruger Park, Panorama Route and a multitude of activities, it allowed us to create a look that’s fresh and contemporary, yet has a safari feel.” Gerrit Jan’s enthusiasm for the project – which was designed by Nelspruit architectural firm Förtsch and Associates – is palpable. “The brief to them was to create a building that would have a low visual impact, be spread out to work with our almost 80 000m2 site, be modern, but incorporate a touch of safari and of course tread lightly on the earth.” The team at Förtsch delivered in spades, and ground was broken a mere month before COVID changed our world. It may have delayed things, but in July 2020, the team got stuck in again and since then the progress has been amazing.
Featuring 138 double rooms, which range from standard rooms to suites, state-of-the-art conference facilities, two massive pools, two restaurants, a spa, a shop, two bars, a lounge and a children’s play area, it’s been a big undertaking and the progress is impressive. Although a
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INSPIRED BY NATURE With his warm, outgoing manner and casual lowveld style, Gerrit Jan van der Grijn could easily be mistaken as one of the many contractors he greets with a friendly smile.
But behind his relaxed exterior, this Dutch born dynamo heads up Lowland Developments – the company behind the gorgeous new Radisson Hotel going up in Hoedspruit.
The interiors were designed by South African company Source Interior Architects who specialise in hotels. “It’s a very different game to homes and shops and they know the Radisson brand standards and specifications well,” explains Gerrit Jan. “Although they’re based in Cape Town, they’ve used local artists and sourcing specialists wherever possible. All the curtains and headboards come from Lowveld Interiors – a company that’s just two years old, but already flying! Hoedspruit based Kuku has been great with sourcing anything our interior designers came up with as well as supplying us with the most exceptional fabrics and locally produced furniture. Local photographers have provided the black and white close-up artworks of flora and fauna and of course these were all framed in Hoedspruit. Where else? We also worked very closely with Weylandts Nelspruit, who in addition to their shop range designed much of the furniture specifically for this hotel. Through the Warren Cary Wildlife Gallery we got in touch with Kim Kay, who has always been one of our favourite wildlife artists and she agreed to design the wallpaper for the rooms.” Built with care and consideration, a light and beautifully local touch, the result is vibrant and uniquely lowveld. Living proof, that local definitely is lekker!
very large project by Hoedspruit standards, it was the intention from day 1 that the Hoedspruit community would be part of, and benefit from, the development, sourcing local content wherever possible. Equally impressive, is just how green the building is. (I should have guessed it would be after seeing the trees painstakingly mapped out on the “Theplans).property features only LED lights and will have a total of 500 solar panels. These won’t be visible, as aesthetics are important to us,” explains Gerrit Jan. “The intention is to produce 100% of our electricity usage during the day, to feed any overflow back into the grid and to only take from it when there’s no sun.”The hotel is also totally selfsufficient when it comes to water. “We have our own water purification plant to ensure it’s safe and potable. After being fed into the building and guest rooms, the water is heated by heat pumps (which are more cost-effective and use less electricity than geysers). The residual water then goes into the sewerage system. Thereafter it gets treated and used for irrigation.” The talk of irrigation turns attention to the hotel’s gardens. Landscaping such a massive expanse is a challenge, but Gerrit Jan says a young local company, Woodlands Landscaping is taking it in their stride. “Their plant and shrub knowledge is incredible. Everything is water-wise and indigenous to the area. We were also lucky enough to get some beautiful old impala lilies from a piece of land a farmer wanted to cultivate. We transplanted them, and if their flowers are anything to go by, they’ve made themselves right at home!” A lot of areas have been left completely natural, with more landscaped areas restricted to spaces around the rooms, main buildings, and pools. The rooms all have lovely views of the gardens, with the upstairs units all featuring a balcony enclosed by a metal balustrade with a wavy pattern that was conceptualised and manufactured in Hoedspruit. “Radisson’s standard is that a 10cm ball cannot pass through it, so it took some clever designing,” Gerrit Jan laughs. Although the balconies make the most of the winter sun, they’re covered by a latte roof providing shade during the hotter months.
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Gerrit Jan explains how some rooms are double glazed to help regulate temperature and that the roofs are also insulated. Every now and then a rock-cladded wall, painstakingly built by local craftsmen, features.
For more info and info@lowland-group.comqueries:
“We couldn’t get the rocks in Hoedspruit, so our next best bet was a quarry in Phalaborwa. The way the craftsmen build these walls is an absolute artform and it’s a pleasure to watch them in action. The rock used for the wall cladding is also part of the Zandspruit architecture, so it all ties in well aesthetically.”
Sourcing locally reminds Gerrit Jan of a favourite saying: ‘What you can buy in the village, you don’t buy in the city’ “It’s why, our main contractor – Eco Pro Construction –and most of the sub-contractors are local. Most of the building materials were sourced locally too. The brick, sand, pavers, and kerbsides are all from Hoedspruit. Where we’ve had to go further afield – we’ve made sure it was installed by locals. Local company Hoffmans for example did the thatching. The plumbing company is local, the joinery company is too, and although the beams, lattes and poles all come from Sabie, local hands installed them. “It’s been challenging but rewarding for many of the smaller contractors, who’ve never had the chance to work on such a largescale project before. It’s a great feeling when you give newcomers and small companies a chance and in return they show dedication and rise to the occasion.”
Architects Förtsch & Associates Consultants Consolv Consulting Engineers CPP Marepo Consulting Engineers Main Contractor Eco Pro Construction Subcontractors & Suppliers Afri-dry Waterproofing – Waterproofing Azul Pools & Paving – Swimming pools Bizzi Woodworks – Joinery Bosbok Gas – Gas installation Bushmasters – Irrigation Creek Plumbing and Construction – Plumbing Dawson & Dobson – Pumps Designer Air – HVAC FerloElec – Electrical Glass Planet – Aluminium doors & windows Granite 4 Ever – Granite Green Power Simplified – Solar installation HHK – Lightning Protection Hoedspruit Steel – Steelwork Hoffmans Thatching – Thatch JOE / Aquamax – Sewage treatment plant Lunar Contractors – Ceilings Pala Pave – Paving Rainbow Reservoirs – Water reservoir Sam Ndimande – Tiling Soldor – Joinery Top Carpets and Floors – Vinyl flooring Trend Tap & Tile – Sanitaryware & tiles Woodlands – Landscaping Interiors Kuku Interiors – Decor, styling & sourcing Kim Kay – Artwork Lowveld Interiors – Curtains & upholstery Warren Cary Wildlife Gallery – Artwork Weylandts – Furniture, lighting, styling 5 promotion
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Editor: Nicky McArthur, 076 952 7761, nicky@macmediagroup.co.za Sales: Audrey Ford Duimelaar, 072 726 4660, audrey@macmediagroup.co.za, musemagazine@macmediagroup.co.za
A luxurious seafront retreat for your next family holiday Conveniently situated on the Kwa-Zulu Natal South Coast, the six-sleeper, Penthouse at Stirling, makes for an idyllic and memorable summer holiday. Walk along the blue flag beach, fish, swim, surf, relax on the beach or at the pool and spot whales and dolphins from the comfort of the penthouse balcony. Find out more and book www.penthouse-at-stirling.co.zaat
Journalists: Carrie Hampton, Mart-Marie du Toit Editing: Anne Schauffer Digital: MPDPS Design: Creative Union Cover Image: Pool party by Greg Cox/ bureaux.co.za Publisher: MacMedia Group @musemagazinesa @musemagazinesouthafrica musemagazine.co.za “Be like the flower and turn your face to the sun” – Kahlil Gibran
The Penthouse Full and Half Page PRINT 220608 ai 3 2022/06/09 11:19:The Penthouse Full and Half Page_PRINT_220608.ai 3 2022/06/09 11:19:17 Each day I pop outside and put my face up to the sky to bask in the glorious Lowveld sunshine. Soon enough, the rest of SA will catch up, and we can all luxuriate in spring’s sunbeams. There is something quite delicious about spring and the expectation of budding flowers, growing greenery, and outdoor living. For me, it is all about long, lavish Sunday lunches, relaxing in the sun with good food, good wine and good company; in fact it’s my favourite kind of day. The type where the kids play on the grass and laugh under the sprinklers; ants unobtrusively invade the picnic blanket, and we grown-ups (and I use that term loosely) while away the daylight hours lazily catching up. Yet, even as the hour passes and the shadows tentatively appear, one can still find that last ray of sunlight to sit under and enjoy its lingering touch on the cheek. And once the sun has stretched its arms to full length in a sleepy yawn and finally gone to bed, and the sky has thrown on its indigo coat, you linger longer because the air is still warm, and the gentle breeze is laced with the faint scent of honeysuckle and jasmine. Simply perfect –simplyMusespring.jumps into spring with a designer pool party and architectural triumph, a virtual wine tasting, a trip to the Free State’s Rosendal and some posh glamping. We chat to mystical artist David Griessel and conservationist/ photographer and protector of sharks – Chris Fallows. Plus, a magnificent spring getaway to be won. “Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘let’s party!’” said someone somewhere. Enjoy the read. NM
STORYTELLING WITH CHRIS WEYLANDT
“Simplicity means stripping away the unnecessary. Everything that’s left behind has to be the best.”
STORYTELLING WITH CHRIS WEYLANDT
“Simplicity means stripping away the unnecessary. Everything that’s left behind has to be the best.”
contents Books, products & all things fabulous A designer poolhouse with a killer view Virtual tasting with winemakers Black Elephant Vintners The Free State’s Rosendal is the new cool kid on the block & Muse takes you glamping Meet artist David Griessel & photographer Chris Fallows 08 design 26 people feast 34 fortysix sixteen reviews wanderlust
2022 sees the exciting return to a physical trail run with the 2022 hybrid Trail and Virtual run. Our fifth annual Trail Run with Heart is returning to our communities in Huntington village, bordering the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve. This Heritage Day weekend will consist of The Extra Mile Trail Run on the morning of September 24th, followed by a fundraising dinner to celebrate The Extra Mile and conservation efforts. Conservation sits close to our hearts, and we place great emphasis on environmental education and community-based conservation practices. The beneficiaries from this year’s event will be the Wild Dog project from Endangered Wildlife Trust and More Community Foundation Projects (Education, Enterprise Development, Clean Water, Living Standards and Conservation).
Venue: Huntington Village, bordering the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve Distances: Rhino 5km; Pangolin 10km; Wild Dog 21km Run
The Extra Mile Trail Run: 07:30 – 24th Sept 2022
The Extra Mile – a Trail Run with Heart, is a More Community Foundation annual fundraising and community development initiative. It launched in 2018 with the purpose of providing sustainable support to people in our local rural community, coupled with the conservation of endangered species. communities & bridging the gap conservation and communities.
The Extra Mile Fundraising Dinner: 17:00 – 24th Sept 2022. Venue: Casa Do Sol Hotel & Resort, FollowHazyviewour Facebook & Instagram pages for more information and IG:FB:@morecommunityfoundationwww.morecommunityfoundation.orgengagement.@theextramilerun@theextramilerun
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co.za/extra-mile-2022/ Or scan the QR code:
For more information about the Trail Run and the fundraising dinner, visit www.lactiacidsports.
needit’sa Our favourite beauty, style, tech, décor, homeware, wellness and kid’s stuff. This eye-catching piece of sculptural artwork effortlessly brings a tranquil, calming element to your outdoor living area. Shop weylandts.co.za. We love this freestanding indoor wood holder by Pedersen + Lennard. Super stylish and functional. pedersenlennard.co.zaShopandthelocaledit.com. Summer Breeze is the newest collection from Silk and Cotton Co. Inspired by fresh summer colours and painting in watercolours, the range is printed on a viscose linen base suitable for upholstery. Shop silkandcottonco.co.za. Could a shower look any sexier? Introducing the AXOR Shower Haven showerhead featuring four jets. Shop hansgrohe.co.za. 10 MUSESEVEN review décor.home.tech
A selfie drone? Snap, the company behind Snapchat, has launched a pocketsized drone called Pixy, designed for taking selfies. It has a simple start button and mode dial instead of a controller and is super lightweight. pixy.com
The Yeelight D2 LED Bedside Lamp is a gorgeous addition to any room. Create your choice of colourful ambience at the touch of a button from the phone app or by knocking on the lamp. Shop yuppiechef.com. How unique is LEGO’s new botanical collection? These lifelike succulents and orchids are made to scale and use over 771 bricks. Shop amazon.com.
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review wellness.beauty.style
Superdry has moved from fashion to beauty, creating a fresh, timeless scent for men. Kyoto Eau de Toilette 100ml, R495, offers zesty notes of bergamot, mandarin and cardamom and warm woody notes. Shop superdry.co.za. We love Credé Black Seed Oil Soap, a gentle cleansing bar that moisturises and heals. The blend of black seed oil, coconut, jojoba seed and olive fruit oil locks in hydration and can relieve skin irritation. Shop faithful-to-nature.co.za and credeoils.com.
Apparently, warming-up readymade meals in plastic containers in microwaves generally isn’t seen as controversial. Margarine and seed oils aren’t seen as controversial. Taking pharmaceutical drugs for life (in cases where there are other ways) isn’t seen as controversial. Diet sodas aren’t seen as controversial. Likewise, the wood polish used to clean surfaces in homes worldwide every single day is not seen as controversial. And, of course, fast food isn’t seen as controversial, and neither is heaps of added sugar. But, according to Wikipedia, Functional Medicine (FM) is seen as controversial. In fact, the words used in the introduction to the Wikipedia article are “unproven” and “pseudoscience”.
medicineiswithDrRavHanyaHouseFunctionalMedicine
I’m not surprised: There’s not much money to be made in the FM world. As FM doctors, we believe in food as medicine (yip, you read that right). We believe in movement as medicine. In breath as medicine. In mindset as medicine. In nature as medicine. And most importantly, as FM doctors, we believe that people are CURIOUS and CAPABLE. Curious enough to understand their own bodies better (and want to learn more) and capable enough to start a long-term, healing journey that puts them back in the driving seat. And for some reason, according to large swathes of the internet, these are all controversial beliefs and views. I’ve studied for nearly 15 years (altogether) through national and international universities that are well respected. So, I’m not hesitant to say: I am a proud Functional Medicine doctor. I am a specialist in a multi-system and whole-being approach to health. I know that food (among others) will make a huge difference to the quality of your life. I also know that becoming more aware of everyday toxins (including stress!) will do the same. If that’s controversial, so beOneit.
Schoonhuid’s Body Lotion is enriched with Agave Syrup, Prickly Pear Seed Oil & Aloe Vera providing a moisturising, fragranced slice of heaven. Shop schoonhuid.co.zathelocaledit.com.&
last thing: As with any service provider, when you’re looking for a doctor, do your research. Don’t be shy to ask the doctor to share their qualifications andmethodology.food & Wellness Retreat www.hanya.house • connect@hanya.house 068 494 6621. Available for national consults.
“What’s Controversial in Health?” MUSESEVEN
CT brand Amanda-Jayne is our new fave thing. Inspired by the power of fragrance, the candles are hand-poured little pots of luxury. and Besides its very sexy packaging, Huda Beauty Power Bullet LipsticksMatte are a fantastic addition to any makeup arsenal. Their colours are gorgeous and longlasting. Be warned –you may turn heads. R420, arcstore.co.za.shop
Taking your laptop bag to work, or anywhere for that matter, has never looked so cool. The new Thule Accent Briefcase comes in three sizes: comfortable, adjustable straps, dedicated pockets for laptops and tablets, and a SafeZone pocket with a removable hard shell to protect valuables like cell phones and glasses. Plus space for a water bottle. Shop thulestore.co.za.
amandajaynecandles.comShop
Lou Harvey’s new range of vibrant duffel bags are lightweight and easy to carry, whether to the gym or a night away. Functional yet super cool, choose your favourite fabric. From R950, shop louharvey.co.za.
thelocaledit.com.
13 style.beauty.wellness review Did you know the best nutritional newenvironmentalprotectingthewellbeing,immuneforfromingredientsskincareareextractednature?RenowneditsabilitytoboostoursystemsandgeneralvitaminCisoneofmostpotentantioxidants,yourskinagainstdamage.Try NIP+FAB Vitamin C Fix Serum, R295. Brightens and decreases fine lines. Available from Clicks etc.
The Little Herringbone Turkish Towel for kids is bright, colourful, eco-friendly, super absorbent and made from 100% cotton. Perfect for bath, pool and beach! R489, thecottoncompany.co.za
kids review
Thabo the Space Dude by Lori-Ann Preston, illustrated by Zinelda Mcdonald & Alex van Houwelingen: This delightful series follows Thabo and his parents to Mars. Will he survive Mars Boot Camp? Will he survive with no friends, no pizza, no milkshakes and no skateboard ramps? And what will happen when he meets an actual alien? Plenty of action and fun. R165, Lapa @Penguin Random House.
My First African Adventure by Riaan Manser with Murray Williams & Chantal Tarling: A wonderful introduction to Africa, Riaan recounts his adventures and challenges negotiating Africa by bicycle. Traversing the Sahara and Libyan deserts, learning different languages, eating monkey, rat and bat, standing in front of the pyramids, feeding hyenas mouth to mouth, and standing on the highest, as well as at the lowest, points in Africa. Amongst his travelling tales, learn about Africa with fun fact boxes on capitals, language, currency, food and more. An entertaining and educational ride; excuse the pun. R195, RandomPenguinHouse.
thriller
“ ” 16 MUSESEVEN review books
Nasty Little Cuts by Tina Baker: This stay-awake-all-night thriller is terrifyingly dark, taking a long hard look at domestic abuse. It moves between past and present, with the present-day story being told over several long, burning hours. It is uncomfortable and disturbing but hard to tear yourself away from. R355, Jonathan Ball Publishers. Girl, Forgotten by Karin Slaughter: One of our favourite authors, Slaughter delves into the sordid but intriguing world of cults. Emily Vaughan was killed in 1982. Marshall Andrew Oliver is on the case 40 years later. But something sinister ties the women together. Nail biting until the end. R340, Jonathan Ball Publishers.
Reputation by Sarah Vaughan: If you enjoyed Anatomy of a Scandal on Netflix, you would love this book by the same author. Emma Webster is an English MP and is being stalked. She is also on trial for murder. The book weaves a thrilling tale of how Emma ends up in court and, once again, author Vaughan uses her courtroom knowledge to create an engaging and dramatic story. Jonathan Ball Publishers. The Curfew by T.M. Logan: “You have just three rules for your teenage son. Let us know where you are. Stay with friends. Don’t miss the curfew.” When Connor misses his curfew, it sets off a series of events that will change lives forever. Because five teenagers went into the woods that night. But only four came out. Completely addictive. Jonathan Ball Publishers. central so many books so little time Frank Zappa
Again, Rachel by Marian Keys: Keys revisits Rachel of the Walsh sisters to give us a glimpse into our favourite character’s life. Of course, it’s messy; what else would you expect? But Rachel is sober and happy, working in an addiction centre in Ireland and in a great relationship. She wants for nothing… that is until Luke comes home for his mom’s funeral. Glorious, poignant, sweet and bitter, everything you would expect from Rachel and Keys, fabulously wrapped up in an extra big novel. Enjoy! R320, Penguin Random House.
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The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain: This is a beautiful, bittersweet story about racial prejudice in North Carolina, America, in 1965 and the repercussions 45 years later. Sad and shocking but utterly compelling and beautifully written. Jonathan Ball Publishers.
The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher: The dramatic story of young American Sylvia Beach, who opens a bookstore and lending library in Paris called Shakespeare and Company. Befriending literary greats like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce, Sylvie controversially publishes Joyce’s banned book, Ulysses. Publishing the infamous book comes at a cost, however, and as Paris plunges into a depression, Sylvie is tested personally and financially. Jonathan Ball Publishers. Dream Town by David Baldacci: Baldacci delves into the 50s in this fastpaced crime novel set in Hollywood. Rubbing shoulders with Cary Grant, Bette Davis and Frank Sinatra, PI Archer must find a missing screenwriter before her time runs out. History buffs will adore the nod to the era, including the actors, cars, and movies. But it’s not for fans of the Amos Decker series.
R340, Pan Macmillan. dramadrama crimetime truelove
The Little Wartime Library by Kate Thompson: Based on actual events, Clara starts an underground library in a disused tube station. Surrounded by bunk beds, a nursery, café and theatre, a secret community lives away from the falling bombs. But as the war drags on, it’s hard to keep going when facing such adversity. R355, Jonathan Ball Publishers.
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POOL PARTY Nature and art meet in this spectacular garden and pool pavilion. 19 architecture design
w 20 MUSESEVEN design architecture When architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens first considered the site of this garden pavilion in the old Johannesburg suburb of Westcliff, they were struck by the almost paradoxical character of its setting. Westcliff is one of the oldest residential areas in the city. Many of the grand old historical houses built by the Randlords are concentrated there, designed in the colonial arts and crafts style by the likes of Sir Herbert Baker. Yet, Silvio and Lesley had a pristine piece of land to build on, and despite the proximity of the city and surrounding suburbia, the presence of nature was strong. The site is on a rocky ridge sloping steeply down to a ravine. Landscaper Patrick Watson had cleared the tangled weeds and undergrowth that had run rampant before the design of the pavilion began. He had created a landscape of grassy mounds and rockeries in its place, partly excavating and uncovering the iron-rich redorange rocks embedded in the koppie. Silvio and Lesley’s brief was to design a garden pavilion that would serve as a place for entertaining and include guest accommodation and a pool. They took their cue from the uncovered rocks, inspired by the idea of a buried landscape and a lost connection with nature. The notion of
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A giant eucalyptus tree intersects with the pavilion. The west-facing deck with its sandstone, steel freplace and terracotta ceramic planters by South African ceramicist and sculptor Dina Prinsloo, is the perfect place, as Silvio puts it, to “celebrate the sun setting in the late afternoon,” and “do all sorts of things that we think you should do in Africa. It’s a liberating feeling to be able to do that in the middle of the city.”
TheCarstens.lounge has been designed as a dropped seating area around a hovering fireplace. The pale grey and fresh green colours of the cushions mimic the colours of nature outside, especially new foliage in spring. The coffee table was the root of the leadwood tree used to make the dining room table.
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Silvio and Lesley are renowned lodge and resort architects who built their reputation evolving a contemporary African vernacular, initially blending available materials from the sites they worked on, often improvising with local craftsmen and artisanal influences to create a highly textured organic architecture. Like a safari lodge, this pavilion was an opportunity to create architecture for sheer enjoyment. However, they pushed their design in a new direction to develop “a modern African architectural language”. “We had the idea of working with a simple shed-type structure, like a flat-roof barn,” says Silvio. As a result, the Highveld farmhouse is possibly the closest thing to vernacular architecture
an archaeological uncovering prompted them to consider a rammed earth wall. The stratified pattern of rammed earth suggests layering and the passage of time and would extend the idea of the excavation Watson had begun. “There was one particular type of sand that was exactly the same colour as the rocks outside,” says Silvio. Connecting or blending the building with its setting would blur the distinction between nature and artifice. “It’s a way of getting it back in touch with the site’s essence,“ saysTheLesley.rest of the design developed from there. By positioning the building thoughtfully, Silvio and Lesley made the most of the views and captured a sense of the landscape’s natural volumes. For example, on top of the grassy mound, an enormous eucalyptus tree has a strong presence, creating a sheltered space beneath its branches. “The garden falls away to incredibly tall eucalyptus trees on the other side, too, so you get a very nice feeling of exaggerated volume between them,” says Lesley. Silvio adds: “The front end of the pavilion is designed to put you into the volume of the garden.”
Above right, architects SIlvio Rech and Lesley
Above, the lap pool showcases a glass window overlooking the treetops. A gigantic whalebone sculpture hovers overhead.
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The bedroom is on two levels so that the bed is slightly higher than the lounge area. This arrangement makes it possible to have an unimpeded view from both areas. The bed was designed by Silvio and Lesley using reclaimed ironwood railway sleepers in a sleek, modern execution. The tapestry above the bed is based on a painting by Albert blowers.SouthGuidowasofpaleabovecoloursdevisedofmadeKompasberg.Redelinghuys,Thebedisupinacombinationvelvetsandrawlinenstodrawouttheinthetapestrythebed,asarethepeachyandrusttonesthesofa.TheglasswarecommissionedfromvanBesouw,oneofAfrica’sleadingglass
in Johannesburg, reminiscent of a time before gold was discovered and the city was farmland. Silvio and Lesley fused this local architectural reference with modernist influences, particularly the famous mid-century steel and glass pavilions by Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson. The materiality of the building, however, is rooted in local textures and associations.
Silvio and Lesley left cutouts in the slab at the base of the pool, creating “windows” in the ceiling over the vanity and the toilet downstairs. “You get the ripple effect of the water on the rammed earth wall, which is a continuation of the rammed earth wall from above,” says Silvio. “As the sunlight moves through the water and casts shadows, you get the superimposed pattern of the water.” Despite its earthy materiality, this pavilion is not quaint or rustic. Its interior detailing is sophisticated and seamlessly executed, marrying the unrefined finishes to slicker surfaces in an ongoing thematic contrast. For example, the overflow on the pool is designed with teak detailing around the edge so that the junction between the floor and water is perfectly even. The sleek white kitchen almost disappears in its minimalistic perfection. “There’s a white cubist kitchen island that we designed,” says Silvio. “It’s almost as if the floor jumped up and moved in a cubic manner with all little bits and pieces that open and close.”
Silvio and Lesley also designed the interior and furnishings, so the concept of the architecture is sustained down to the level of the interior details. A key piece, the dining room table, begins The massive dining room table pictured below is sliced from a single leadwood tree. The wooden benches were made from recycled ironwood railway sleepers, the same material from which the pavilion’s geometric substructure is made, extending the architectural language in another execution. The carpet was hand woven in Swaziland by Coral Stevens in gradations of colour to echo the pattern of the rammed earth wall. The hanging sculpture below right is part of a series of bone sculptures and chandeliers that Silvio and Lesley have made suspended from wire and articulated with fine chrome callipers and brackets.
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A daring and inspired inversion provides an elemental spirit. Rather than the obvious choice to have the swimming pool outside at the edge of the deck, they decided to have it indoors, juxtaposed with the rammed earth wall. Above it, a skylight lets in the third element of light. The pavilion becomes like an architectural prism, capturing light, earth and water and allowing them to co-mingle and animate the building.
The pavilion’s carefully proportioned modernist framework is constructed from salvaged ironwood railway sleepers. “We engineered steel brackets to hold those together to create the substructure of the building,” says Silvio. The pavilion’s clean, refined geometry is expressed in raw, recycled materials with historical associations.
another “golden thread” that runs through the design of the building. It is made from a gigantic leadwood tree salvaged during a bush-clearing exercise in the Lowveld. “It was so heavy, we had to get a crane to lift it over the wall,” says Silvio. The table’s “massive” organic form is polished and refined to allow the grain to express its character. “The coffee table is the root of the same tree,” he adds, as is the vanity downstairs. “There is a marriage between architecture and organism,” says Silvio, “On one level, we have an existing tree growing through the building, and on another, this special leadwood that we have used in several differentSomeways.”ofSilvio and Lesley’s handcrafted designs are included in the decor, including some bespoke and some signature works. A number of the crocheted floor carpets and a beaded ottoman in the bedroom “speaks of African handcraft”. Other carpets commissioned and woven in Swaziland pick up on the striated pattern of the wall but in the colours of the vegetation. It all creates a heightened awareness of nature. Some mid-century Scandinavian design introduces a subtle mediation, its refined organic-inspired forms adding to the conversation. The spirit of the building seems to culminate in a whalebone sculpture suspended above the swimming pool with chrome callipers and brackets. Its gigantic undulating spine perfectly captures the motion of the giant creature moving through water. As Silvio points out, its presence seems to animate a swimmer’s movement in the pool “in a different frequency”. The rim-flow edge against the glass wall looks out into the treetops, so as you swim, you feel as if you could be rolling through the air, but with the earth wall adjacent, you could just as well be immersed in a subterranean cave. It’s a paragon of how art, or architecture for that matter, can be at once utterly transporting and profoundly grounding... nothing short of spiritual.
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The Danish midcentury teak rockers on the left were designed by Frank Reenskaug for Brahmin. Lesley picked them up in a vintage design store. Along the wall, light, earth, and water co-mingle and create an elemental confluence that animates the whole pavilion. In the bathroom, the vanity is another slice of the leadwood used for the dining table and coffee table. The rammed earth wall is a continuation of the wall adjacent to the pool. Light floods down above the vanity from a “window” in the base of the pool.
A key part of the contrast between rough and refined, traditional and modern, is Silvio and Lesley’s cubist-inspired kitchen island.
architecture design
Congratulations toTokara family-owned,theacclaimedStellenboschwineestate,theonlySouthAfricanproducertobeincludedinthe50GreatWhiteWinesoftheWorld2022.tokara.com
Sprix is the first alcoholic Rooibos seltzer, and fans will enjoy the unique flavours of rooibos tea brought to life in this low-calorie beverage. Infused with natural flavours, it’s refreshing and easy to drink, with no fizz and low sugar. Discover the four flavours and find your unique summer taste. Available from liquor stores.
thirstforquenchersspring
28 MUSESEVEN feast in&out
Wild Horse Wooded Gin was recently launched by Gin & Co in White River to protect the legendary herd of nomadic horses that roam freely throughout Kaapsehoop, Mpumalanga. This Gold Award-winning gin is handcrafted in small batches and can be served as a sipping gin on the rocks, or blended with your favourite Indian Tonic or Appeltiser. And, smile in the knowledge that 10% of the sales are donated towards their cause. Shop thegincompany.co.za and TOPS@SPAR.
ELEPHANTOM Is an African dark rum based on the legend of a famous bull elephant from the Knysna Forest. Hunting decimated this once flourishing herd of unique forest elephants – but a lone bull was known to appear and then magically disappear. Dark and mysterious, the rum is triple distilled, offering a rich, rounded and fruity flavour with caramel notes fading to cooked peaches, light spices, vanilla and hints of apple. R419.94, available from liquor outlets or shop capebrewing.co.za
Congrats to local gins, Musgrave Original and Musgrave Rose Pink, for winning gold at the 2022 Fifty Best Gin Awards in NYC. Original Musgrave shows off a selection of 11 botanicals, each reflecting an aspect of the African Spice Route of yesteryear, including Cardamom, African Ginger and Grains of Paradise. Musgrave Pink adds a touch of rose hip to these botanicals. Shop musgravespirits.com.
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Shanky’s Whip is made from black Irish whisky (whisky aged in charred barrels), un-aged Irish spirit, and blended with natural flavours and caramel. In Ireland, it’s tradition to drop an Irish Whiskey shot into a pint of Guinness, and Shanky’s recreates this soft creamy-rich flavour. Named after a jockey, Mr Shanky, who, after being thrown from his horse, famously finished the race riding an ostrich and won! Or so it’s been told. Delicious after dinner treat on ice. R395, Available from liquor stores. Shop cutlerdrinks.co.za
WIN
To celebrate, we are giving away a bottle of Musgrave Original. Email your contact details to musemagazine@macmediagroup.co.za and put ‘Musgrave’ in the subject box. Ts&Cs apply. Closing date is October 31, 2022. Don’t forget to follow @musemagazinesa.
Lady Lillian Sparkling Wine is almost too pretty to drink but is a gorgeous addition to any party or celebration. The Cru Classe Rose offers aromas of white flowers and hints of strawberry on the nose, and you will love the flavours of ripe tropical fruits. R79.99, exclusively available at TOPS@SPAR and SPAR outlets nationally.
k feast wine Hover over the QR code to watch the Three Men in the Tub video. 30
“My surname means black in English. Raymond’s surname means elephant, and vintners is after Jacques’ winemaking background. We had actually already created the name Black Elephant in Joburg when we were trading, so it made sense to use it when we started working together again. And Franschhoek used to be called Olifantshoek (Elephant Corner). The flag even has elephants on it, so it’s fitting and sticks in people’s minds,” explains Kevin.Coining the phrase ‘Rebels of the vine’, the description is certainly apt for this band of bearded beauties, some of whom leapt into the world of wine with eyes wide shut. Luckily Jacques actually knows how to make wine, having studied viniculture and worked under several wellknown winemakers. They all have a sincere love and appreciation for wine, and aim to demystify the winemaking process making wine more accessible to all enthusiasts. And so they continue to stand out and balk the norm. “We don’t want to do what’s been done. We are anticonvention; we try to disrupt. We don’t want to follow. Our branding is different; we do music, we look different, we are not traditional wine geeks,” exclaims Kevin.
REBELS OF THE VINE Meet Black Elephant Vintners – the guys behind some great new wines in SA. Not to mention creating a stir with their three men in the bathtub ad!
Words Nicky McArthur
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“Even when Black Elephant Vintners started, it was never going to be a day-to-day job for me. Boy, was I wrong. It consumes you. We now think, drink, eat wine every day.”
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Kevin Swart, Raymond Ndlovu and Jacques Wentzel bring diverse backgrounds and skill sets to Black Elephant Vintners, aka BEV. Kevin and Raymond were stockbrokers in a previous life. They met 20 years ago at a finance firm in Johannesburg, later starting their own company, which they sold in 2011. With a two-year trading restraint slapped on them, Kevin wanted a change of lifestyle. The Cape called; he bought a farm and moved the family there. “I just wanted to press Control Alt Delete. I had no intention of going into the wine business. I did a wine tasting course, and wine has always been part of our lives, but it was not an active
So, how’s business? “Didn’t you know? The amazing thing about the wine industry is that
What’s in a name?
“Then,decision.ImetJacques, who was looking after the farm’s grapes with the previous owner. We had these vines, so I made wine. I use this term loosely – it was all under Jacques’ direction. In 2012 we made a Cabernet Sauvignon with my grapes. My wife is the undefeated Sauvignon Blanc Olympic champion and it turns out that I love making wine!” On 1 January 2013, Jacques and Kevin officially joined forces, with Raymond joining the fray later as an advisory party, and so Black Elephant Vintners was created. “The funny thing is,” adds Kevin.
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Three Men in a Tub plus a rubber duck and more quirky wine names
there is a money tree growing next door to every vine,” laughs Kevin. “You can make a living from making wine, although the bank manager might disagree. The biggest problem is cash flow. You pay for the wine often years before you sell it.” The team got hammered in the first lockdown, but thanks to their online business, they are now well positioned. “It’s a game changer when customers can buy online. It’s probably the cheapest place to buy. We have a fast turnaround, loyalty programmes, and are always open to communication with buyers.” Black Elephant Vintners offers a wide range of quaffers, as they call them. Easy wine with an entry-level price of R92 a bottle. Then you have Chenin, Cab Sav, Viognier, Grenache, and Petite Syrah – they like to diversify and make Cap Classique to round off the experience.Although Kevin grows grapes on his farm, the team prefers to buy their grapes. “It’s a different model –most people buy a farm of 50ha of grapes to make Chardonnay. So, they make a wooded Chardonnay and an unwooded Chardonnay and maybe a special edition. My farm has Cabernet, but we buy grapes from other farms, allowing us – within reason – to change our minds. For example, we had a Rhone Style blend, but the Bordeaux blend sold better, so we changed it. We have just bought in Chenin Blanc; if it doesn’t work, we don’t have to do it next year.”
Pros? “If you are making a wine that costs less than R100 per bottle, it’s almost uneconomical to farm the grapes yourself, so it’s better to use someone else’s farm. And the biggest pro for me is the creativity and fun we have making blends.” Giving back The guys created Firstmiracle.org to give back to the community that gave them so much. “You know the story where Jesus turned water into wine? So we want to change wine into water, but it’s more complicated than we thought. We have always been socially conscious, and my middle brother works for NGOs across the world, so he helped us formulate an idea to raise money. We also supply 1500 eggs to preschool kids in the area and help the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy. They assist with our harvest. Spread the love Winebucks is Black Elephant Vintner’s equivalent of the loyalty programme eBucks. “Everyone wants a discount. I grew up in Durbs, so I like to haggle. That’s how winebucks work – give the buyer stuff and retain the client.”
“We have fun with these. The idea behind them is that they will grab your attention. Great wine, bad label – won’t sell. Bad wine, great label –you buy once. Great wine and great label – great combo. Two Dogs, a Peacock and a Horse cheekily mocks current animal wine labels. Everyone always gets the name wrong, asking for the Kangaroo and Tortoise wine or the Three Men in a Tub wine. We loved this and had to use it. Names are fun, but the idea is that they will grab your attention.” Music calls “Music and wine pairings excite us hence we released a Festival range. We do Saturday morning wine and music pairings and we often do silent discos with headphones. It’s different. We are all about demystifying wine; we like to do what hasn’t been done. “We all like music, and we all like wine – double win. You can have a serious, quiet wine tasting experience up the road, which is very cool, but then you come to us and experience something completely different. We are not saying choose either or. We are saying do both – they are both so different. And wine tasting is an experience. You don’t always remember the taste of the wine. But you will always remember the experience, which sits with you much“Winelonger.”tasting is exciting. There are so many dynamics to consider every day. I used to trade markets, so it’s similar and equally exciting. You can make mistakes, and you can change your mind but it’s a passion. This industry gets in your blood. It drives us mad but we love it!”
Gains & losses
The cons of doing it this way? “You can’t always chop and change with a grape grower. You need good relationships to ensure your grapes are looked after and have fantastic flavour profiles. This is where Jacques comes in. Winemakers generally know each other; this industry has a lot of honour. Of course, sometimes grape growers may stop making wine altogether if they believe it is more profitable to grow something else like plums, so you lose your grapes.
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The bubbly range “Bubbly takes a long time. We started in 2013 with a Cap Classique Brut and released it in 2015. We have since introduced a Chardonnay, Zero Dosage and Rose in 2019. They have come in slowly.”
“We all like music, and we all like wine – double win” 34 MUSESEVEN feast wine
The Power of Love Chenin Blanc, R115, nicknamed Marley, after Bob Marley, is BEV’S latest release. ”You can make Chenin in many styles,” explains Jacques. “Ours is fruity as we used old bush vines exposed to the warm sun. You will find balanced acidity, white fruit, quince, and pear.”
Take, for instance, Two Dogs, a Peacock and a Horse, R92. Described on the website as: ‘Perfect for pool parties and your 1000 closest friends. The centre of attention and often found on the backseat of cars at the Drive-in, you won’t believe the bottle is finished and will have to reach for another.’ It’s a Sauvignon Blanc, but it’s fruity. “I am not a fan of the green style of Sav Blanc,” explains Jacques. “Grapes should taste tropical, not like vegetables such as asparagus and grass. I want aromatics. This is a pool party wine boasting beach vibes.”
FESTIVAL
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Did you know that Black Elephant Vintners offers virtual tastings?
Lastly, we tried the Cap Classique Brut, fondly known as the Michelle Obama amongst the inner circle. R275. “This is bubbly that is very un-bubbly,” laughs Jacques. “There’s no flash, no bling. We liken it to the Ducati Monster motorbike, which was taken apart, so just the frame and engine were exposed but it was still beautiful. This is the first Cap Classique we ever made – the SA sun brings out the fruit, and although it’s dry, there is a hint of sweetness.”Butyou can’t read the label?
“Pino always has more flavour intensity when making Rose; it gives you more options and offers a lovely sweetness,” says Jacques. “And the label means regardless if you are a fox or a flamingo – this wine is for you.”The Three Men in the Tub are Kevin, Jacques and Raymond; and as they say, ‘what goes on in the tub stays in the“Thistub!’is our red wine blend,” explains Jacques. “It’s a Cab Merlot blend. Light and refreshing. We call it our braai wyn, but it does punch above its weight.” And there’s a QR code on the bottle, which takes you to the infamous Three Men in the Tub video. Expect to taste berries and dark fruit. “It’s only R92, but it feels like a R150 wine!”
So if you can’t get to Franschhoek, why not open one of their wines and chat with winemaker Jacques online –which is precisely what Muse did. We tasted the Festival range and The Cap Classique Brut. Six gorgeous wines arrived on our doorstep, showcasing fabulous names like The Fox and the Flamingo, and off we went. Jacques describes this range as refreshing and all about the fun and enjoyment of wine. There are no rules at this tasting. No sniffing and swirling of wine. No spittoon in sight. Just pure enjoyment. “The sniffing and swirling definitely has its place,” smiles Jacques. “But it could be why some people shy away from wine. More people must drink wine and feel comfortable drinking wine.” We first noticed the fun labels and the art on the bottles. Each one touches on the name, the farm and the area of Franschhoek, like the Cape Dutch gable illustration, the upside-down Y, which represents the Eiffel Tower, and turned on its side represents the SA flag. But don’t go looking for tasting notes on the back of the label because there are none. Instead, there is a made-up story or limerick that means absolutely nothing. “Yes,” agrees Jacques. “Pure gibberish! Wine is your story, it is your interpretation of the wine. You need to find the flavours.”
The Fox and Flamingo Rose is gorgeous and made from Pinotage, one of SA’s most versatile grapes. ‘Rosé all Day! – said someone somewhere.’
“Yes, you can’t read the label, which makes you pick it up and engage,” explains Jacques. “Now you just have to put it into your trolley and buy it.” | bevintners.co.za WINES
The Power of Love Cabernet, aka Jimi, after Jimi Hendrix, R145, was released on Human Rights Day this year. “It’s different because of how it was made,” says Jacques. “In 2020, a young block of Cab came into production, so we had lots of it. The wine sat in the steel tank for a long time, longer than usual because of COVID. Barrels were delayed, and there were no containers, so we could not bottle. So this wine returns to simpler times; it’s rough, unfinished but light and refreshing, giving you an Umami effect.”
36 MUSESEVEN wanderlust rosendal
37 SLEEPY,STRIKING,SECLUDEDRosendalissetontheedgeoftheWitteberge,whichformspartofthefoothillsoftheMalutiMountains.Itisherewherecreativityandadventuregohandinhand.Youcanbrowseartgalleriesonedayandheadoutonyourmountainbikethenext. It is a town filled with surprising contradictions, which is precisely why it’s so hard to describe. Words: Mart-Marie du Toit rosendal wanderlust
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Owner Liela Magnus will also gladly introduce you to her donkeys, Basjan and Oscar, who watch over the Aclientele.walkaround town seemed like a good idea to ease our guilt after having two waffles each. The old-school sandstone architecture and the attractive tiny houses (like the ones you see on TV!) are a sight to behold. Photographers and artists love Rosendal because of its scenery, and you’ll soon have some new pics on your camera roll. We headed back to the hotel for a lazy dip in the hot tub before spending the evening chatting to locals and eating moreish pizzas at Yolla’s Pub and Restaurant. If you’re up for a lively jol – this is your place!
wanderlust rosendal
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Let me tell you a little secret… I fell in love with Rosendal way before the town became cool. When there was only a coffee-and-cake eatery (with occasional theatre performances), a co-op, a general store, and a couple of houses dotted around town. Now Rosendal has a lazy buzz to it, and if you want to experience stunning scenery and exceptional eats and treats, this is where you should book your next getaway.There are many exciting accommodation options, and we chose to stay at The Rosendal Country Retreat. Newly renovated with cosy rooms and a hot tub with a great view – what more could we ask for? It turns out that we didn’t have to ask for anything. Freshly baked bread, homemade butter and delectable jam awaited us in our beautifully furnished room. Logs were piled high against the fireplace to keep our feet toasty at night, and we were immediately asked when we would like to have the hot tub ready. The Rosendal is a treat, in every sense of the word – spacious rooms and beautiful gardens and more than enough room for youngsters to play. The coffee lounge and stoep were our favourite hangouts, and stargazing from the garden in front of our room could not have been more memorable. We kicked off Friday afternoon with delicious waffles at Benjamin’s. They serve sweet and savoury waffles that are light as air. We loved the bobotie waffle, and you can’t go wrong with any sweet options.
rosendal wanderlust
40 MUSESEVEN Waking up to the dappled light and birdsong in Rosendal is always special; crisp autumn mornings should be spent on a stoep with a cuppa in hand. So, we had a lovely breakfast at Oppidam whilst breathing in the surroundings. Then we got our culture on and visited ark.contemporary – the new art gallery where local and other exhibitions are held. Here, you can view works by Rufus and Magda van der Vloed, Michele Nigrini, Wessel van Huyssteen and other prolific artists living in Rosendal. We also quickly met artists Willem and Linda Pretorius at their home to take a peep at their beautiful works of art. We realised we were hungry again and popped into the Service Station Wine Bar for a glass of wine and some nibbles. It used to be an old and dilapidated mechanic’s shop, now serving as one of the most beautiful spots in town. The most interesting feature is the old mechanic’s pit, which has been repurposed into a wine cellar. Their food is on par with that which you’ll find in Johannesburg or Cape Town, and their wine, spirit and gin collection is diverse and includes the most extensive collection of Canadian whiskies in South Africa. “Canadian whisky is made from rye, so it is quite unique. There are some This is by no dorpie.plattelandsejustmeansanother wanderlust rosendal
similarities with bourbon, which is made from corn but is smoother and less sweet. It is a national brand, a treasure, and we celebrate that here at the Service Station,” says coowner Douglas Mason. After all the excitement and booze, we retired to our room for a snooze and then headed out to meet local farmer Louis Kruger for an adventurous 4x4-drive to a holkrans (hollow cliff) on his farm so that we could watch the sunset. This was our number one experience and one we’ll return to Rosendal for. Don’t missSundayout! mornings in Rosendal are made for hiring mountain bikes at the Rosendal Outdoor Hub to explore the town and surrounds. Then you must have breakfast at Glas. Both are located at De Kleijne Dal (next to The Rosendal Country Retreat). Glas also serves lunch and dinner, and you can enjoy drinks from the Vloed Bar and Cigar Lounge alongside the seasonal fusion dishes from chef Carla Cronje.Then it will be time to head home, and you realise you wanted to hike, ride a horse, play tennis at the club and meet more locals… Rosendal might be a town with 99% stofstrate where donkeys will ogle you while you enjoy a glass of wine, but this is by no means just another plattelandse dorpie. On the contrary, Rosendal is seductively creative and sensationally gastronomic. But don’t just take my word for it; trust the locals when they say if you’re bored of Rosendal, you’re bored of life. | rosendaltown.co.za
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42 MUSESEVEN wanderlust glamping
Words: Carrie Hampton
GLAMPINGPOSH
Posh Tents are exactly what you get at the Canvas Collective Africa tented camp, which roams between three countryside locations in the Western Cape according to season.
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The hills are doodled with trails for do-it-yourself or guided hikes, and the uphill effort is worth the views of the Riviersonderend mountains, whose sandstone peaks separate the Breede River Valley from the Overberg.Onthe circular route back from my 4km hike, I couldn’t resist
44 MUSESEVEN wanderlust glamping
The child in our group charmed the camp staff, stoked the fire and ran wild in nature. Children under 12 stay free on a sofa-bed or in the parent’s king-size if they are willing.
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There’s a catering supplement for children over 12. In advance of the spring flowers, the camp relocates to the Cederberg’s Biedouw Valley, where each tent nestles on a bed of blossoms. The linear positioning of the tents overlooking a dam lends more privacy than Overberg’s horseshoe layout. The arrangement with the new owner of this land was a stroke of luck, as such a soughtafter site is hard to come by. There are bike and hiking trails, Bushmen paintings to be discovered, and wild horses roaming this land. When thousands of primary-colour flowers follow the sun and the night sky sprinkles millions of stars over the scene, there can be no place on earth I would rather be. In summer, the camp removes to its third locale overlooking the historic town of Tulbagh. Fringed on
following the signs to the secret forest, which delivered hide-andseek nooks, a tree swing and a path to a pond with a couple of canoes.
“When thousands of primary-colour flowers follow the sun, and the night sky sprinkles millions of stars over the scene, there can be no place on earth I would rather be.”
Camping, yes, but not as you know it. Ten tents, each the size of a bachelor flat, with king-size beds and an en-suite shower bathroom, gather around a fire pit lauded over by a chandeliered bar and dining cabin made of glass, steel and canvas.Like many exclusive safari camps, the Posh Tent Experience is a fully-inclusive tariff of fine wines and chef-made gourmet cuisine, with a pampered breakfast-inbed option and morning mimosa cocktails positively encouraged. Pot still brandy sipped in the wood-fired hot tub under a sparkling milky way completes the indulgences. This was my experience in the Posh Tent Overberg location. The camp is situated in late summerautumn, deep in the scenic hills and valleys of Porcupine Hills Guest Farm, some 20km from Bot River.
glamping wanderlust
canvascollectiveafrica.com
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The 5-star tents have high-quality bedding, electric blankets, a fan heater and a Nespresso machine, and the wine and food include vintage Cape wines, MCC, breakfast, lunch, plated gourmet dinner, room mini-bar and a midnight snack pack. It costs R6 500 per tent per night, with Winter Specials on offer. This delightful high-end Posh Tent glamping is for those who want to be in nature but still have the home comforts they know and love.
wanderlust OrangeRiver three sides by grand mountainous scenery, the town’s complete history is revealed by a saunter along Church Street, boasting the most heritage buildings in one short road. I wondered how such an extensive camp set-up could just pack up and leave. But, co-owner Dez Lundy tells me, “I’ve set up incentive group camps with 750 tents, so 10 luxury tents aren’t a problem for me!” He explains that it takes about three days to dismantle, three days to move to the next location and 10 days to set up, with help from electricians, plumbers, and engineers to install the unseen scaffolding supporting the restaurant structure. It’s a tread lightly approach, leaving no scars on the Thelandscape.whole concept for the Posh
They fully conceptualised their Posh Tent Experience in just one year, and the Canvas Collection Africa was born. They decided to go with an upmarket product and have created a luxurious, pampered experience.
Tents arose in lockdown when Samara Stern and Dez Lundy met at the non-profit Ladles of Love feeding scheme. Sam’s family had become financial supporters of this charity, and Dez became a volunteer. Dez’s operations expertise and innate charm brought in 48 tons of donated vegetables per week, feeding 50 000 people. In addition, Sam’s event management and business experience helped her initiate a sandwich drive achieving a World Record of 320 000 sandwiches made in one Philanthropyhour.and innovation brought these two young people together, and they featured in a newspaper article entitled Lockdown Love. Their people-focused ethic continues in their Posh Tents endeavour, which supports seven staff and their extended families, with extra waiters and kitchen staff hired locally. “We had an exciting COVID,” says Samara. “We started a business at the worst time, but with my events experience and Dez’s tented camp know-how, we knew we could make our dream a reality.”
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48 MUSESEVEN people david.griessel Scribbler
49 david.griessel people POWERFUL CREATIVE
“A finished bad drawing is always better than a fantastic drawing that never gets completed,” he says. He also believes that there is power in art and creativity.
“I’ve had many people message me on my social media platform, letting me know that my art gave them solace when they were going through difficult times. My creativity is often fuelled by anxiety or a sense of melancholy, and I am convinced that my work is often understood by people struggling with their mental health.
Some of my biggest collectors are psychiatrists who hang my art in their offices and even use my drawings as ‘tools’ for freeform associative thinking with their patients.” How did your journey as an artist begin?
I have always sought escapism, and from a very early age, I found this in the genre of fantasy. So I devoured books, films and computer games with an element of the fantastical and a sense of alternate ’world building’ to them. I started copying some of the fantasy illustrations found in the books I read and even got plenty of inspiration on the backs of our computer game boxes. In this way, I started to develop my drawing skills. I soon grew bored of copying orcs from Warcraft 2 and monsters from Diablo and started thinking up my own slightly derivative characters and scenarios. I think this urge to create new narratives and the creative glow that emanated through my being after I made something that wasn’t there before is what started my journey as an artist.
What memories stand out from the beginning of your journey?
David was born and raised in Bloemfontein and has always sought escapism from his surroundings. He was that kid – you know, who draws all the time. Except his drawings were filled with magical new worlds, creatures you’ve never seen before and fantastical elements that come alive on paper. He describes himself as industrious, abstracted and nervous. We describe him as ingenious, visionary and frankly, brilliant. David lives his life according to two principles – ‘good things come to those who create’ and ‘finished, not perfect.’
When I was two years old, I saw The Never Ending Story for the first time. In the movie, there is a scene in which the protagonist is ambushed by a horde of crazylooking crab monsters, which truly terrified the living daylights out of me. They made such an impression that I immediately started drawing monsters resembling these creatures. My mother framed one of them and still has it on her office wall. As a 32-year-old man, I am still fascinated by monsters and how the unknown or repressed can be symbolically represented using the archetypal image of a beast or grotesque hybrid. Who or what inspires you? I am inspired mainly by writers. To be a writer takes so much dedication and focused work.
50 MUSESEVEN people david.griessel
If you know his strange-butwonderful works of fantasy, you know they inspire extreme awe and emotion. If you don’t know his work, you’re in for a treat, and we’re jealous of your position – to experience the surreal narrative drawings filled with magic and wonder for the first time. Welcome to the intricately exciting adventures of David Griessel.
Words Mart-Marié du Toit
51 david.griessel people Gearing’s Point, Hermanus
52 MUSESEVEN people david.griessel Pathfinder
Chess game of the endless
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
53 Haruki Murakami’s books and lifestyle definitely inspire me. His stories are an exciting combination of the prosaic and otherworldly, and he is a master of atmosphere. His strict time schedule and selfmotivated work ethic are also hugely inspiring. He writes extensively about this in his non-fiction semiautobiographical book, What I talk about when I talk about running A few other writers who inspire me with their fiction and how they live or have lived are Franz Kafka, Neil Gaiman, Ursula Le Guin and Alan Moore. Visually I get a lot of inspiration from the films of Studio Ghibli. This Japanese animation studio has produced some of the most intricate animated films in the past hundred years, and the mastermind behind it all, Hayao Miyazaki, is a fascinating character himself. I love reading interviews and articles about him.
What is interesting to note is that most of my inspiration doesn’t come directly from the world. I don’t go out to look at nature and talk with people and society to get my ideas – I escape from the world and get creative nourishment in the creations of other people’s imaginations. Tell us more about your new gallery in Bloemfontein. The Gallery is called the Co-Op Gallery, and I am a cofounder alongside Willemien Kruger and Esre du Preez. We run this gallery as a space to host art exhibitions, workshops and drawing get-togethers. I want my portion of the gallery to be a place that showcases ‘illustrative’ narrative artwork and to show the public that this genre of work can also occupy the same spaces that traditionally are only allocated for ‘fine art’.
Working in my pyjamas – I have pyjamas that I sleep in, and after I shower, I get into clean pyjamas and work all day in them. I only wear ‘grown-up’ clothes when I have to get groceries. I’m also addicted to rusks and coffee. Where can we view your work?
I have a public sculpture at Gearing’s Point in Hermanus. I worked with my representing gallery, Art@Africa, to create this giant metal and resin sculpture, which is on location for a year. You can view a large selection of my works at Art@Africa’s Clocktower Gallery, located in the Clocktower Centre in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. I also have works at Julie Miller Contemporary in Johannesburg and Benguela Cove Gallery just outside Hermanus and Lizamore and Associates (Johannesburg).
The Co-Op Gallery in Bloemfontein also has a selection of my work. | davidgriessel.com | FB@David Griessel Art | IG@art_by_david
david.griessel people
54 people chris.fallows
A FORPASSIONSHARKS
If ever a man has followed his passions it’s Chris Fallows. He has made it his mission to raise awareness of endangered species, currently with his 11th Hour Collection of fine art photographs honouring Africa’s most iconic animals.
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Words Carrie Hampton Photos chrisfallows.com
“Orcas sometimes play with their food, it’s not a quick death,” says Chris. “Great whites are gentlemanly killers; they bite their prey in half and eat it in seconds.”
Orcas have undoubtedly contributed to the decline, but are not the main factor to explain the absence of great whites in False Bay. Numbers had already been significantly declining a good few years before Port and Starboard made an appearance. The great whites eat more small sharks and fish than seals, and Demersal Shark Longline fishing has depleted and over-exploited their primary food sources. In addition, Chris says, “There are only a few thousand great whites left on the planet and yet the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board kills more great whites than any other government sanctioned programme in the world. We are
people chris.fallows
56 MUSESEVEN Chris is as happy in the bush amongst Africa’s big game, as he is in the ocean encircled by sharks. He’s been capturing images of animals for the past 25 years and only the very best are chosen for his ultimate black and white collection, currently on show in galleries across Europe. But it’s his photographs of great white sharks leaping through the air with jaws clamped over a seal, that shot Chris to fame in 1996. Never before caught on camera, these dramatic visuals captured the imagination of millions of viewers in hundreds of international magazines and over 70 documentaries he’s done with National Geographic, BBC and the Discovery Channel. This marine behaviour has been going on for 50 million years, but great white shark cage diving as a tourism opportunity in Cape Town’s False Bay came only after Chris’ shark pictures went global and he started Apex Shark Expeditions. Shark cage diving quickly became one of the most sought-after ocean adventures in the world, with False Bay and Gansbaai about 170km east, the epicentres. But both these huge bays are now completely devoid of this predator. Where have they gone and why? Chris regularly gives talks about sharks as a guest speaker on luxury cruise ships, conferences, schools and public appearances. In one of his supremely illustrated presentations he poses the question, which is the greatest hunter – orcas or great whites? It turns out that they both have 50% hunting success rate, but the difference is the orcas are smarter and work together. The great whites have the same success working alone, but as Chris points out, their low numbers and poor genetic diversity in South Africa, makes them vulnerable and slow to respond to changes. This is ultimately their downfall. He believes the great whites were taken by surprise when attacked in particular by two Orcas nicknamed Port and Starboard, for having a dorsal fin each tilting to the opposite side. Hunting together and exhausting the great whites, who are sprinters not able to maintain the stamina of a long chase, the orcas sliced open the sharks and ate their nutrient-rich livers.
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Chris shines a light on Africa’s greatest animals by giving them centre stage in each of his spectacular photographs. Capturing each subject in its most perfect setting is his way of recording species that may not survive, but also to inspire people to save and celebrate what we have before it’s too late. | chrisfallows.com | apexpredators.com | FB/IG: @chrisfallowsphotography
59 essentially wiping out the apex predator in our ocean because of a grossly outdated way of thinking. With an average of less than one fatal shark attack a year, out of fear we have condemned a species to possible local extinction.”
Since the great whites have left False Bay forever, his Apex Expeditions boat excursions out of Simon’s Town concentrate on the whole marine experience, with a mixture of penguins, seals, dolphins, whales and a host of sea birds making an appearance. But it’s the bronze whaler sharks and sevengill sharks which are the stars of the show now. They are more interactive than the aloof great whites and spend a lot of time around the boats. The privilege Chris has had in seeing these super predators up close, which includes free diving with them, made him realise he had to tell the story to the world and contribute to the change he wants to see. All the funds raised from his 11th Hour Collection of limited-edition prints are used to buy land for habitat rehabilitation and to support NGOs working in wildlife conservation. “We have some famous great white breaching photos in the collection and as we don’t ever expect to see these creatures in these waters again, these photographs will tragically never be repeated.”
Chris is in search of truly spectacular images to add to the collection and is very selective as to the time and place for the shot he’s after. “I conceptualise an image before I go and focus all my energy to capture the remarkable.” Giving centre stage to each creature in its most impeccable setting is his way of recording species that may not survive. But he’s also hoping that his work can inspire people to believe it’s not too late to save and celebrate what we Chris’have.wife Monique – his constant travel companion, researcher and organiser behind his creative chaos – explains that they can’t buy a piece of ocean, so they are making steps for positive change on land. They have started rewilding a nature reserve in the southern Cape and with the support of neighbouring landowners are helping to conserve six critical botanical biomes. Monique points out that there are many positives and that each of us can personally do something for the environment and conservation, however small.
“I took the first and have taken the last ever photo of breaching great whites, in False Bay all in the space of just 25 years.”
chris.fallows people
Chris surmises, “I took the first and have taken the last ever photo of breaching great whites in False Bay all in the space of just 25 years. I can’t believe we killed the ecological and financial golden goose in an evolutionary blink of an eye.”
W!N
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