Creativity Workshop

Observe Nature | Engage with Nature | Create in Nature

This workshop’s focus is on wild nature as visual inspiration, conceptual stimulus and material source for your art.

Paul Gauguin’s phrase “Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?”  is both the title of his famous 1897 painting and a profound existential question. It reflects his deep contemplation of life's fundamental questions about human existence, identity, and destiny. Each part of the phrase poses a timeless inquiry:

-      “Where Do We Come From?” – This refers to our origins, both individually and as a species. It can be interpreted in a personal, spiritual, or even evolutionary sense, asking about the beginnings of life, culture, and identity.

-      “What Are We?” – This part questions the essence of our being. It prompts reflection on what it means to be human, probing the nature of our existence, purpose, and the roles we play in society and the universe.

-       “Where Are We Going?” – This focuses on the future, questioning our direction and ultimate destination, both in terms of individual life journeys and the collective fate of humanity. It invites thoughts about mortality, legacy, and what lies beyond.

In the painting, Gauguin attempts to visually explore these questions, drawing from his time in Tahiti, where he sought simplicity and raw connection to nature and primal humanity. The cyclical structure of the painting mirrors the journey of life from birth to death, symbolising the ongoing search for meaning. Using Gauguin’s phrase of ‘Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?’ as departure point, we will consider notions of origin, archaeology, history, humans’ impact on nature (Anthropocene), nature as home, animalism, and more.

During this event you will be introduced to new creative souls or meet up again with art friends in the CAP community. You will have the opportunity develop your drawing, painting and 3D construction/sculpture skills, as well as further your conceptual creativity.

Venue

The workshop takes place at Ngongoni Lodge just outside Nelspruit/Mbombela, a very special and beautiful veterinary farm. The Lodge has extensive artful accommodation, beautiful surroundings, a massive boma and some roaming wild animals (non-dangerous!) like giraffes. You could easily extend your event with a visit to the Kruger National Park, which is just about 54km from there.

Preparation and Materials

Art materials are not included, but you may use the naturals on the farm to build your structures and you can make your own charcoal in the fire.

After you have booked for the workshop you will receive a document outlining your preparation for the workshop. Your preparation will include some reading; some thinking; and putting together your own art materials.

Cost

The cost of the workshop depends on your preferences. The workshop cost is R3000 pp, payable to Elfriede.

In terms of accommodation and meals there are various options possible:

Accommodation

Meals and accommodation are provided by Ngongoni Lodge and includes a stay from Sunday supper to Friday lunch (payable to Ngongoni Lodge). There is a student house with 2 rooms with 5 beds each;  2 rooms with 2 beds ; 4 rooms with double beds; and 1 room with a 3/4 bed (total possibility of 19-23 people).

¨     Accommodation sharing in room with two beds: R350 per day per person

¨     Single accommodation:  R450 per day per person (5 single rooms available)

 Cost of meals

Breakfast. R75

Lunch. R100

Supper. R150

Whole day: coffee, tea, cappuccino, hot chocolate

Pricing examples

Workshop + sharing accommodation, all meals R675pp pd – total of 5 days: R6375

Workshop + single accommodation, all meals R775pp pd – total of 5 days: R6875

You could omit some of the meals such as lunch which will bring down the cost with R500.

To book

A minimum of 8 workshop bookings is necessary for the workshop to continue.  

elfriede.dreyer@gmail.com | whatsapp +27 83 2712342

Additional

·       Transport to and from the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport can be arranged by the Lodge.

·       The Kruger National Park as well as the Mpumalanga International Airport is very close to the farm.

·       It will be warm to very hot during the day but bring a warm jacket for the nights. Bring shoes suitable for walking in the veld.

·       The Lodge is not located in a Malaria area. You may/may not enter areas with Malaria, but a good repellent is the best defense.

·       Who is Elfriede?