the road...
I am Gerhard Snyman, aka Gerart and I was born in Pretoria South Africa in 1972, where I spend most of my life creating as much art as I can. I've graduated from the Technicon of Pretoria and obtained my diploma in Graphic Design in 1995 and with great uncertainty entered the world of Graphic design.
My first few years I spend cartooning and illustrating for a variety of corporate and private clients, accepting almost any job that would get me through to the next month. I have been through a lot of difficulties finding my way as an artist but I believe that made me who I am today.
It took me 12 years "caroselling" in the land of design and marketing trying my hand at nearly every artistic discipline, I was always looking for the next ride to the unknown. During this time I picked up a lot of life experiences through tough times. This I believe developed and prepared me for what was to follow.
From standing next to the dusty road, exhibiting my art at nearly any art market or festival, to getting some valuable exposure through a few art galleries I paid my dues. Life took an unsuspected turn in 2015 when I was recognized on social media which helped me pave the way to the next level of creative artistry and brought me more success.
As a family, we made the big move to Cape Town where I found new inspiration in its beauty and ambience. I am now the proud owner of the Gerart Exclusive Art Gallery at 19A Huguenot Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa.
style...
Vibrant, colourful, bold and exciting! These are a few of the words that spring to mind when considering the paintings of Gerart.
This hugely talented artist originally from Pretoria has the knack for combining excellent drawing with a confident and expressive style of painting that is his own.
Gerart's search for his true calling has led him to experiment with a variety of styles, disciplines, mediums and techniques. His constant exploration of his artistic self has led to a natural progression toward the discipline of acrylic on canvas.
Gerart paints with confidence and explosive passion. He play's and explores with both paintbrush and pallet knife, fresh, vibrant and exciting colour combinations with each stroke. He demonstrates an unmistakable unique style and is truly an expressionist by heart.
Gerart finds his inspiration in form itself and favours portraits, figures and wildlife above all subject matter. This distinctive technique and use of colour result in works of art that exude an exotic passion and capture the very essence of sensual power that any form possesses.
Praised by critics and art collectors alike...recognized by a number of exhibiting galleries, and has been acknowledged by several notable South African artists to be a great artist.
His approach leads to vivacious nude studies; the boldness of stroke not in any way detracting from the delicate nature of the subject. His Portraits has the ability to surprise and engage the viewer. Any subject that he tackles is carried to the canvas with a flare and exuberance which leaves one in no doubt that a part of the artist himself is incorporated into the artwork.
You will find a great variety of artworks in private and corporate collections throughout South Africa.