As you know, being an artist isn't easy - the hustle can be relentless, full of uncertainty, self-doubt and long stretches where it feels like nothing is moving.

But through all of that, I've learned resilience and a deeper trust in my Creator, this gift I've been given and the call to simply abide in my Maker's presence.

Lately I've been incredibly grateful for the doors that have started to open - opportunities that remind me why I keep showing up, even when it's hard.

Each step forward feels like both a reward and a reminder that persistence, passion and faith do pay off in their own time. A reminder to keep knocking on those doors, to not stop responding to those Open Calls and to keep creating, no matter the season.

 An Invitation Answered

Toward the end of January this year, I received a phone call that I will not soon forget: my proposal for a solo exhibition at Art.B in Bellville’s Main Gallery had been accepted. Without a moment’s hesitation, I said yes.

More Than an Exhibition

Returning Light is not a conventional exhibition. Rather, it represents a rare and meaningful convergence of artistic paths. Through an unexpected yet deeply resonant alignment, my artworks enter into dialogue with the poetry of Elaine Rumboll. 

Together, they reveal a shared interior landscape—one that speaks to the subtle, often unseen threads that connect creative expression across disciplines.

Each artwork has been accompanied by a corresponding poem, or an excerpt, drawn from Elaine’s latest published collection, Unfinished Faith. This pairing offers a singular and immersive experience: a synthesis of visual and literary art that invites reflection, interpretation, and emotional connection.

A Distinguished Collaboration

It has been both an honour and a privilege to welcome Professor Elaine Rumboll to this exhibition. An internationally published, award-winning poet and businesswomen, at both the opening and walkabout, Elaine offered readings from selected poems featured in Unfinished Faith.

Elaine’s distinguished career spans both academia and creative practice. She is the founder of The Creative Leadership Consultancy and previously she served as Director of Executive Education at the UCT Graduate School of Business, designing customised leadership programmes, which elevated the programme to global recognition, and which Prof. Rumboll continues to contribute as Senior Adjunct Faculty. A recipient of the Businesswoman of the Year Award, a Master Lego Serious Play practitioner, a contemplative and holder of an international Chair in Creative Leadership, Elaine brings a rare integration of intellectual depth and artistic sensibility to her work—guiding others to lead with insight, energy, and imagination.

Unfinished Faith (2026) is the fourth poetry volume in her collection.

An Invitation to Pause

At its heart, Returning Light is an invitation: to pause, to notice, and to reconnect with a sense of awe and wonder—even amidst the weight and demands of everyday life. 

My prayer is that every person who visits this exhibition will leave not only inspired, but somehow lighter—uplifted through the quiet, transformative power of art.