Anina Deetlefs

Anina Deetlefs (b. 1973, Johannesburg) is an accomplished South African artist who has carved out her niche in large and small-scale portrait and figurative studies, approached with meticulous attention to detail. Holding a degree in Graphic Design from the University of Stellenbosch, Anina draws inspiration from the 'stuff of life', womanhood, relationships, childhood, meories, and cultural heritage. These themes are rendered into art that is both relatable and accessible to viewers.

Her work is an exploration of adversities, mistakes, failures, and relationships, asking how these experiences might cultivate human growth and spiritual enlightenment. The internal landscapes depicted in her art set the stage for an inquiry into the ambiguity of life, emphasizing that perception is unique to every individual and is simply one's interpretation of reality.

Anina's artwork is characterized by a strong visual narrative with symbolic elements. Her current work combines oil and pen, merging her love of portraiture and textile design with her background in graphic design. This fusion results in contemporary pieces that portray the human face adorned with floral inlays or tattoos, each accompanied by an uplifting story that enhances the viewer's appreciation of the unique work.

Anina's achievements include being a finalist in The StateoftheART Awards competition (2018), The Sasol New Signature Competition (Top 100) (2015), and The Sanlam Portrait Award (Top 100) (2017). Her solo exhibitions include "Earthbound Spirit Solo" (2014) and "Skin" (2018) at Rust-en-Vrede Gallery, and "Ashey" (2023) at Art@Africa Gallery. She has collaborated on the "Unfurl Exhibition" with Lizl Bode at Rust-en-Vrede Gallery (2024).

Her works are exhibited in galleries such as ManzArt Gallery Franschhoek, Atelier Louis Gallery Belgium, Leonardslee Sculpture Gardens Benguella Gallery UK, Art Africa Gallery Cape Town, and FomoArt Gallery Pringlebaai. Anina's work has been featured in various magazines, including Visi, Southern Vines, Taalgenoot, Circle Foundation Quarterly Magazine, Goddess Art Magazine, South African Artists Magazine, The Huts Magazine, and Art Times.