Prelude at the Pretoria State Theatre

The South African State Theatre in Pretoria, Tshwane, saw the birth of, and was the driving force behind, the establishment of the performing arts in all spheres in South Africa. Many artworks were commissioned to adorn its monumental walls, one of which was a magnificent piece entitled 'Prelude' by Beatrix Bosch. The artwork measures an incredible 27metres and took the artist more than a year to complete.

The Theatre today plays a leading role in the development of the performing arts, and is host to the colourful variety of entertainment found in the diverse cultures of our wonderful country.

The opening of the theatre complex in May 1981 was a milestone in South African theatre and marked the beginning of great things to come. In 2000 The Theatre re-opened as a receiving house a few years later, and has been host to blockbuster shows like Cats, Sarafina!, The Phantom of the Opera, The Sound of Music to name but a few. The South African State Theatre has an important and necessary part to play in the daily lives of everyone and is definitely here to stay!

When next you visit, take a look at the magnificent artwork in the foyer, testimony to one of South Africa's favourite artists who is still producing amazing pieces in her studio in Wilderness. Visit her online leather showroom at http://www.beatrixbosch.co.za/ to see the latest works.

It all started with a bedspread...

In 1969, Beatrix Bosch pioneered leather art in South Africa. Completely self taught, she became well known for commissioned works in large buildings and hundreds of homes around the world.

Beatrix has had 34 solo exhibitions in South Africa, USA, Switzerland and numerous group shows. She is now combining computer graphics with the leather art, visit the Graphics page on her website to view her astounding digital imagery.

Born: Hertzogville, Free State, RSA.
6 January 1935.

Educated:
Orange Girls' High School, Bloemfontein.
Stellenbosch University - Dipl. Home Economics 1955.
Johannesburg School of Art - Pottery & Weaving 1965 -66.

Profile:
Married Anthropologist Dr. J.L. Bosch 1956.

1961 - helped husband with research in Okavango, NAMIBIA.
1962 - 67 lived in JOHANNESBURG.
1967 - 69 lived in NELSPRUIT.
From 1969 lives in WILDERNESS, Western Cape.

Beatrix creates mainly abstract wallhangings in various kinds of leather. She often undertakes special commissions for corporations and private homes.

In the later 1990's, she branched into incorporating sculpture in leather and resin; also airbrushing and mixed media on ostrich skin.

Her latest passion is creating designs on computer, using Painter and Photoshop. Read the full biography on http://www.beatrixbosch.co.za/