National School of the Arts Presents Exciting Performances and Workshops This March

Explore the Beauty of Roses in Art at La Motte's New Exhibit

Update Exploring the Floral Impact: Art and Nature Come Together Franschhoek is about to become a cultural hotspot, welcoming art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike for an enchanting morning focused on the beauty and intricacies of roses. La Motte Ateljee invites you to immerse yourself in the delicate world of floral artistry with an exhibition titled Rose’d, featuring the captivating works of the talented artist, Heike Taschner Jeske. This event, dubbed Peeling back the Petals, a Focus on Flowers in Art, will not only showcase beautiful art inspired by this beloved flower, but also delve into its history and significance in the zeitgeist of contemporary culture. An Immersive Experience with Roses The exhibition opens on January 31 and runs until February 22, 2026, presenting a collection of sculptures, installations, and artworks in various mediums that explore the rose as a symbol of beauty, fragility, and strength. As Heike Taschner Jeske’s installations come to life, every petal, shadow, and curve tells an emotional story, offering visitors a unique experience that transcends mere observation. The centerpiece—a magnificent larger-than-life rose—invites you to step inside its gentle folds and experience beauty as if you were part of the bloom. Visiting the exhibition also offers an opportunity to participate in valuable discussions during the art talk by Strauss & Co Artist, Alice Toich, about the role of flowers in art and their ability to evoke reflection and emotion. Bridging Cultures and Ideas This engaging experience does more than just celebrate roses; it looks to foster a connection between the artistic community and local tourism. By bringing together diverse artists through an Open Call, La Motte is encouraging a dialogue around the themes of growth and beauty, offering a platform for multiple voices that resonate deeply within the South African cultural landscape. This effort channels the recent surge in cultural representation seen through platforms like Netflix South Africa, which is helping to showcase local creators and stories to a broader audience. Such endeavors echo the importance of supporting local talent and highlighting the sometimes-overlooked intersections between culture, art, and tourism. The Rose’d exhibition serves to reiterate the significance of nurturing our heritage while paving the way for future innovations. Rich Cultural Context With a rich lineage based on the historical significance of roses—often viewed as symbols of love, resilience, and remembrance—this exhibition seeks to tap into not just the beauty of natural art, but its multifaceted theme in everyday life. The garden, the centerpiece of the estate, serves as a dynamic metaphor for the flourishing cultural landscape of the region, making this more than just an art show, but a celebration of life itself. The timing of this exhibition alongside other notable cultural events such as local music festivals, and theatre productions, further aligns with the flowering appreciation for arts and cultural heritage in South Africa. It reminds us that even amidst contemporary complexities, the rose continues to symbolize hope and beauty throughout generations. Workshops: Creating Art from Nature Beyond the exhibition, La Motte is also offering a variety of floral-inspired workshops for those looking to dive deeper into the world of art and creativity. From creating ceramic floral jewelry to painting classes that explore the textured beauty of rose petals, these sessions cater to both novice artists and experienced hands alike. Participants can explore botanicals and unleash their creativity under the guidance of expert artists like Heike Taschner Jeske herself. Each workshop not only offers a hands-on experience but also encourages guests to think about their own connection to nature and art. Guided by skilled facilitators, attendees will have the opportunity to not only create unique pieces but to engage with the stories behind them, echoing the ongoing themes of growth and introspection that the Rose’d exhibition encapsulates. The Future of Art and Nature As we step into this vibrant event, we are reminded of the integral role that art plays in our personal and collective narratives. The fusion of nature and creativity reflects broader cultural trends, and as artists continue to explore these synergies, we can expect to see even more innovative expressions of the world around us. So why not hold onto this unique moment and gather friends, colleagues, and fellow art lovers to experience La Motte’s heartwarming take on flowers in art? Join the conversation surrounding the significance of roses, the celebration of creativity, and the beauty of our natural world by being a part of this remarkable exhibition. Whether you partake in watching the art unfold around you or engage creatively through workshops, there's something peaceful yet invigorating about letting art blossom in your life. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the enchanting dualities of flowers and art, beauty and emotion, made all the more accessible through La Motte’s thoughtful curation.