Whoever you are, wherever you live, a painting, a print, your children’s art beautifully framed, transforms a house into a home. Art complements and elevates your décor, it tells your story
This year’s East Coast Radio House + Garden Show showcases the fine art of framing, the power of statement mirrors, how recycling can be reinvention, and of course, the wonderful work of numerous talented, established, and emerging artists. From June 27 to July 5, the Durban Exhibition Centre plays host to artists from across the spectrum, a superb opportunity for homeowners to bring their walls to life, and choose bold over beige.
The Durban Art Gallery promises a wide and wonderful diversity of work, giving visitors the opportunity to engage with contemporary art and artists. The Gallery will showcase six artists, each of whom brings different concepts and execution to the Show. It’s fresh, exciting art from this group who work in different mediums and genres, from paint to charcoal to lipstick, and self-portraits to abstracts. Each artist is exploring their personal relationship with the human and natural world. Come to the Durban Art Gallery stand, and connect with the work of Bandile Ncanana, Njabulo ‘Vezi’ Mngwengwe, Mlamuli Shozi, Ayanda Mkhize, Lindokuhle Mthembu, and Nhlanhla Shozi.
On the road again are Jodie and Ryan Loubser, travelling artists. They move around the country, painting, exhibiting and selling their art. Jodie says, “It’s a good and busy life, and our studio changes constantly.” And that’s where you, visitors to the Show, come in. The Loubsers will be there, each exhibiting their own distinctive style of art, largely in oils. Jodie paints water lily landscapes and chandelier interiors mainly, and Ryan is known for his Fractionism, Quiver Trees, landscapes and Multi Visions. They love to do commissions for homes, so find them and have a chat about your home and style.
Soekie Human of Ermelo has a very different artistic style. The past 22 years have seen her developing a very distinctive style in both oils and impasto acrylics. With warm, rich colours and loose brushwork, Soekie’s celebration of nature is evident in every painting.
Contemporary art complements or even creates contemporary homes. Sarita Gous has been painting for 15 years, creating modern ocean and cloudscape oil paintings inspired by nature, light, and atmosphere. She’s inspired by the feeling and energy of the sea and sky, and how they shift and move in subtle, powerful ways: “I aim to create a visual portal – offering spaces of calm, reflection, and reconnection within the home,” says Sarita.
A painting, drawing or artwork may be exquisite, but framing spells the difference between mediocre and magical. Thirtieth time exhibiting at the Show, Natal Art Craft Industries (NACI) has been in Durban for over 60 years. They’re renowned for their custom frames using recycled polystyrene, framed or laser cut mirrors, framed prints, glass art, décor items, and canvas wall art. They’re offering exclusive show specials, including everything up to 60% off, and 20 percent off custom framing vouchers redeemable in their showroom until the end of August 2026.
Lazarus Kufakunesu is not only the Patio Guru, but a legendary soapstone sculptor and more. He produces canvas paintings, steampunk art, fine art, and patio furniture. “No scrap belongs in the scrap yard,” believes recycler extraordinaire Lazarus, as he transforms old car parts, horseshoes, garden tools, and scrap drums into handcrafted masterpieces. His outdoor furniture and light pendants are well worth a trip to his outdoor stand N8.
From young, vibrant, emerging artists to those with decades of experience, there’s a canvas, a sculpture, a print or more, that’s perfect for that beckoning spot on the wall. Listen carefully…it’ll talk to you, and you’ll know it’s for you.
The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show takes place from June 27 to July 5 at the Durban Exhibition Centre.
Tickets are available online via quicket.co.za or housegardenshow.co.za or at the entrance on the day.
