René Snyman South African

René Snyman is a young professional artist living and working in Sir Lowry's Pass, Western Cape in South Africa. Growing up on a Kalahari farm near Upington, her close interaction with nature shaped her remarkable powers of intimate observation. Since discovering her drawing talent as a young child, René dedicated herself to working hard and developing her skills.

Initially self-taught, Snyman received her first formal training at the Orange Girls High School in Bloemfontein under Marion Barnard, still a mentor and close friend of the artist. She went on to study fine arts at the Free State Technikon and in 2002 moved to Johannesburg to pursue her career as a professional artist.

Her paintings explore the effects light on various surfaces like soil, skin or water and the interplay between different temperatures of colors. The artist draws her inspiration from nature, her childhood and her daily life experiences. Her specific interests include the following: landscapes, as long as she can keep it close and personal; portraits, for conveying the subtle messages and emotions people communicate through their eyes, hands and gestures; and farm animals, which she has come to love and understand since her childhood. 

Snyman never limits herself to a particular size, but normally works in a range of different sizes. She particular prefers life-size. Initially, she will decide in which medium the work should be drawn or painted. Then she spends a lot of time exploring different compositions. Finally, she decides what size would do the artwork justice. She usually allows the artwork itself to "dictate" the composition and size. Some artwork call for a direct, huge and in-your-face approach; others require a minute and intimate touch.