Cover of the book about the life and work of Hannetjie de Clercq - alive and well.

Finally, a book is to be published, about one of South Africa’s great contemporary artists – Hannetjie de Clercq.
Of greatness …? She would, laughingly, whip away any such pretensions. I paint. Make with it what you like but don’t give me any of your intellectual drivel. Stand up to me. Let me see who you are. Let me taste your smile and your about ways and you might pass. Not that I have seen it all – but bull – shit – I do recognize from far.

Remember the dream. See into the far. Hold my soul. My heart. You are. I am. We are. Listening.

You were true to me. So I hold you dear. Princess.

Blasted. Waiting for ... you ... and me ... see! ... time! dream! ... slipping away. Blasted ... Hold it ... Be!

We adore Hannetjie and have always loved her art. What a joy to be at her exhibition a few days after our return! Hannetjie works with a formula which deepens with each work. Her narratives are maturing and the poetry glows. She works with the precision of a master and her rendition is immaculate. No short-cuts, no cheap tricks.

Come and taste. And - be, then: the apple of my heart.

Sweetest of music of the spheres.

I will hold you - that is the promise.

Never have I or will I, ever have forgotten.

You are - a star.

With our love!
Colleen and Walter
Betty`s Bay, Friday Nov 4, 2011