Stephanie Bester: Emancipation

East London based artist Stephanie Bester (b.1955, Tshwane, South Africa), a qualified Nursing Sister with an Honours Degree in Sociology, obtained a Master’s Degree in Visual Art at the age of 55 years. “I’ve always had an adventurous spirit (I obtained a Private Pilot license and a Yacht Hand certificate), but it would take 30 years in a nursing career before I discovered my true calling as an artist.” Stephanie's late husband, Paul, encouraged and motivated her with his words: “Believe, Begin, and Become.” She was a student, well into her forties, who had to adjust to university life all over again. “Art has helped me to find a new direction and purpose in life. To know that one is never too old to do something different.”

Bester's sculptures are inspired by her love for nature and her interest in the relationships that humans have with one another and the environment. “I believe we have forgotten about the relationships we share with animals, the environment and each other. The concept behind my artwork is to explore the complex and intricate nuances behind womanhood and the effect that the transformation of female roles has.”

Bester's oil paintings and limited edition bronze sculptures explore the intricate relationships between humanity and the natural world. With a profound sensitivity to the interplay of emotions, she captures the essence of human connection with nature through her evocative artworks. The vibrant colours, brushstrokes and elongated bronze figures invite the viewers on a journey of introspection, prompting contemplation of humanity’s place within the vast tapestry of existence. She weaves together elements of intimacy, vulnerability and resilience, offering a nuanced perspective on the enduring bond between people and the environment. Her artworks serve as a poignant reminder of the beauty, fragility and interconnectedness of all life forms, inspiring reflection and reverence for God and the world around us.

Bester’s artworks have featured in numerous magazines such as Woman & Home, Country & Life and Design Ways. Her sculptures and paintings are linked in design, as she creates oil paintings that include images of her bronze sculptures to place them within a more meaningful environment. She has received various awards in Printmaking, Best Progress Art Student, Art History and L’Artigiano in Fiera and has participated in various local and community projects, and in various solo and group exhibitions. Her work is represented in collections both locally and internationally.

Stephanie Bester
"Liberty"
2022

The running pose of the cheetah suggests a freedom from being caged or encaged. Reinforcing the dream of man to be free from any illness, poverty, corruption and oppression.

Bronze on Wood (2/9)
65cm x 33cm x 11cm
R 27 420
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Stephanie Bester
"Freedom"
2018

Both animal and man celebrate a liberation when free from fear or want. Where a freedom of speech and religion exists and animals can roam.

Oil on canvas
98cm x 102cm
R 7 170
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Stephanie Bester
"Guardian Angel"
2018

This image suggests an emotional attachment with "Self" and "Others". Here the cloak and human figure appears to protect a baby Rhino. But the uncovered head and horn reinforce the vulnerability of both animal and human kind.

Bronze (2/9)
55cm x 35cm x 22cm
R 22 340
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Stephanie Bester
"Guardian"
2017

An "Angel" appears to protect a baby Rhino from the spears of hunters. She uses her cloak while surrounded by watchers. The tense atmosphere is enhanced by the warm colors.

Oil on canvas
89cm x 71cm
R 7 500
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Stephanie Bester
"Birth Rite"
and detail
2012

This sculpture contrasts male and female strengths - the strong male torso versus feminine corset. In a love relationship, these strengths can either encourage or discourage the "Other".

Bronze on Granite (1/9)
20.5cm x 50cm x 9cm
R 22 340
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Stephanie Bester
"Awakening"
2016

This painting speaks of the joy and sense of freedom when one discovers "Self". A joy or apprehension of waking up to the challenges each day brings.

Oil on canvas
73cm x 91cm
R 7 500
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Stephanie Bester
"Conversazioni"
2018

These images speak of the need for transparent, sincere and common interest to alienate the invisible enemy known as Covid 19. People need to set aside their differences and focus on Solidarity. There is no time to conceal or become defiant and non-transparent. The time has come for "Conversazioni".

Bronze on Wood (2/9)
50cm x 29cm x 22cm
R 27 340
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Stephanie Bester
"Lekgotla"
2020

A modern androgynous person appears to read or feel the confusion in the communication process during a Pandemic. Yet peeps just around the wall as if to gleam some knowledge from the forefathers. The hats, broken walls, distorted buildings, and dead trees allude to the devastation that leads to hope.

Oil on Canvas
91cm x 61cm
R 7 170
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Stephanie Bester
"Mercy"
2018

The poses, cup and money bag bring to mind a cup-bearer who is an officer in a royal household. However, rather than carrying wine, these figures allude to supporting one-another, not only physically but also monetary.

Bronze on Wood (1/9)
75cm x 29cm x 18cm
R 27 340
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Stephanie Bester
"Hunter"
2018

The lone "Hunter" appears to walk with determination to perhaps hunt something for the pot or spiritual ritual. Their trophy is painted caves rather than Fiscal.

Bronze on Wood (2/9)
69cm x 21cm x 9cm
R 25 670
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Stephanie Bester
"Eagle"
2014

The water container allude to the importance of water and dire straits of water supply. Water is a necessity for life, and yet so many households do not have the privilege of a running tap. Water has to be Collected and delivered by a woman with the clear-sightedness and the speed of an eagle.

Bronze on Wood (1/9)
58cm x 12.9cm x 7cm
R 18 730
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All the artworks are for sale.
If you are interested in purchasing any of the works, please email us at artlovers1932@gmail.com
or click for purchase enquiry below any specific artwork