All in the Mind

by
Maryna Pretorius

23 May 2025

Maryna Pretorius, born in 1992, overcame dyslexia, bipolar mood disorder, and social anxiety with the support of a single parent, finding solace and success in art. This passion led to a Higher Diploma in Fine Arts from Tshwane University of Technology, followed by numerous exhibitions. Driven by a love for jewellery, she now works as a jeweller at Sivana Diamonds. As a breast cancer survivor who underwent a double mastectomy, Maryna possesses deep empathy for the impact of hormone-induced cancer on identity, often weaving her personal experiences into her art.

*

My preferred sketching tools are pens and fineliners, which naturally produce a strong contrast between dark and light. The use of vibrant colours heightens the impact of even the most challenging subjects. My art invites viewers to explore new perspectives and embrace open-mindedness. Rather than making a specific statement, I aim to create pieces that encourage individual interpretation, allowing viewers to explore their own narratives and discover personal meaning. Art, for me, is about escaping into a world of fantasy and emotion, and Salvador Dali, the ultimate explorer of the surreal, remains my enduring muse.

Maryna Pretorius
"Ravenous"
2022
Fineliner on paper
30cm x 21cm
Unframed
R 840
Click here for purchase enquiry

Maryna Pretorius
"Bunny up"
2025
Fineliner & silver paint marker on paper
32.5cm x 25cm
Unframed
R 840
Click here for purchase enquiry

Maryna Pretorius
"All bones"
2024
Fineliner & silver paint marker on paper
35cm x 24.5cm
Unframed
R 840
SOLD