AGAC 2023 Top 25 Finalist - Alanie Botha-Austin - Birth of Magnifica

Top 25 Finalist in the AGAC 2023

- Artist: Alanie Botha-Austin

- Name: Birth of Magnifica

- Size: A1 (594mm x 841mm)

- Medium: Oil on Board

- Price: R13,950

- Framed

Alanie is an emerging South African Visual Artist and she has been awarded as a Top 25 Finalist in the ARTi Gallery Art Competition 2023!  

About this piece: 

When I saw the original painting of the The Birth of Venus, I immediately envisioned a beautiful African version of the original painting. My South African recreation depicts a strong, beautiful, and graceful African Queen, "Magnifica" (The Spirit of South Africans) as a focal point supported by animal guides that journey through the African Savanna. Through this artwork, I aim to celebrate the rebirth of our nation and the progress and transformation that South Africa has undergone, highlighting the ability of South Africans to overcome challenges and emerge stronger than ever before.

About the Artist: 

I am an emerging visual artist. My passion for art started at a young age and has been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life.

I used to doodle on everything and everywhere as a child. Art was my favourite subject throughout my school years.

I obtained my BA Degree in Visual Communication at the Open Window School of Visual Communication in 2005.

I am currently a freelance Graphic Designer with over 20 years’ experience, working with various clients across different industries. My design career limited my time for fine art, but it did allow for a creative outlet.

I only started painting and drawing again in 2020 as a hobby, but I realised In the beginning of 2023 that I had to set a goal for myself to start working towards doing art on a more full-time basis.

I entered a few international online and local competitions, mostly for encouragement to produce more art, for which I received various awards.

I enjoy painting with oil, watercolour, acrylic, and gouache, as well as drawing with pencils, pen, markers and pastel. I find that using a variety of mediums allows me to express myself in different ways.

My favourite subjects are animals and people. My artworks usually have a combination of impressionistic and realistic elements. I enjoy working with textures and details.

I find that art not only allows me to express myself creatively, but also provides a sense of relaxation and mindfulness. 

I believe that art is a powerful medium to convey messages and emotions, and I am passionate about using my talent to inspire others.

“The more we dream the better the chance of It becoming a reality."