Nikki Swanepoel

Nikki Swanepoel is an established artist working on her art since 1983. Prior to taking up her art full time she qualified as a veterinarian and held a senior lecturing position at the National Faculty of Veterinary Science (Onderstepoort) until 2000. Although she is now an around the clock practicing artist, she still makes the effort to work part time in animal behaviour and human-animal interaction.

Nikki’s work revolves around animals and the strong bond or importance of animals in our lives. Her Cattle as Cultural Markers in South Africa (M-Tech Fine Art degree fulfilment, University of Johannesburg) highlights the role of cattle in South African history. Using symbols, transfers and gestural markings she emphasizes cattle not only as cultural markers, but also as a source of income, livelihood, food, warmth and a source of key historical dispute.

Nikki has exhibited in numerous group and several solo exhibitions since 1983. She is recognised in South Africa as well as abroad having exhibited in London, Paris, Prague, Yugoslavia, and Canada. She was the recipient of an international graphic art competition award in France (1994). An exhibition of 40 serigraphs followed, which toured France. She also won an international award in a competition on animals in art (USA 1997).

Although Nikki is presently heralded for her ceramic work, she also works in mixed media on paper and silkscreen prints. She also consults in product design and environmental design specifically for animals creating masterpieces intended for Fido but fit to grace any table!

 Information courtesy of various internet sites.