Edward Speirs watercolour

Born in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal in1937, Edward Speirs was educated at Maritzburg College with art as Matric subject. He studied art part time at Durban Art College.

He also attended the Arthur Lennard Academy of Fashion in Johannesburg.

Devoting himself entirely to his art Edward spent fourteen years (1984-1998) in Graaf Reinet holding several local exhibitions as well as showing his work in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town. The artist moved to Cape Town in 1998. He is known for his paintings of Karroo and vases of field and garden flowers, inspired by the stark beauty and adverse conditions of the Karroo. In his own words:

"I believe the struggle and hardship of my life as an artist has taught me how to project my moods and emotions onto the canvas simultaneously capturing nature's ever changing elements. My aim has always been to capture beauty and not ugliness."

An artist with a considerable technical range, Edward Spiers demonstrates a fine sensibility in interpreting his subject. Versatile in the use of the oil and water colour media, he has also achieved recognition for his pencil and pen and ink drawings.

Compiled by Gail Dörje