“Art Meets Nature” Exhibition Showcases Anton Smit’s Sculptures at Botanical Gardens
Renowned South African sculptor Anton Smit has partnered with the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) to present his extraordinary “Art Meets Nature” exhibition, now on display across three of South Africa’s botanical gardens. This unique collaboration invites art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to explore the seamless connection between humanity and the natural world, through an array of breathtaking sculptures.
Set against the lush, tranquil backdrops of the Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden (Johannesburg), Pretoria National Botanical Garden, and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (Cape Town), the exhibition offers visitors an unparalleled experience where art and nature merge. The collection includes a wide range of Smit’s iconic works, from towering heads and human figures to intricate sculptures that evoke deep emotions and philosophical reflections.
“I aim to inspire a deeper connection with nature through my art,” shares Anton Smit, whose works are internationally celebrated for their monumental scale and raw emotional depth.
Sculptures on display are available for purchase
For more info | Commission a Sculpture, kindly email: info@antonsmit.co.za
A Journey Through Art and Nature
Each botanical garden highlights Smit’s sculptures in a distinct way, thoughtfully placing his works within diverse environments to accentuate both the art and the surrounding landscape. Among the striking installations visitors can expect to see are the Stream of Consciousness series, Faith Mask, Crouching Man, and Whirlwind – ‘Izandla Ziyagezana’. These awe-inspiring sculptures are crafted from a mix of steel, bronze, and Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP), each carrying a powerful narrative about humanity’s place in the universe.
Enhancing Our Shared Spaces
This exhibition is not just a visual delight but also a reflection of the harmonious relationship between creativity and conservation. Pairing Smit’s evocative works with SANBI’s commitment to preserving biodiversity provides a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering both cultural and ecological appreciation. Each garden serves as a sanctuary, not just for wildlife but also for visitors seeking inspiration, reflection, and a reconnection with the natural world.
Key locations and details include:
- Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden (Roodepoort): Enveloping the sculptures in a serene landscape of waterfalls and wildlife.
- Pretoria National Botanical Garden (Brummeria, Pretoria): Hosting 15 sculptures amid its indigenous flora.
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (Cape Town): Placing the art against the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain.
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
Address: Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort
Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: R25 – R80 per person.
Pretoria National Botanical Garden
Address: 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria, Pretoria
Opening hours: 08:00 – 18:00, no entry after 17:00
Entrance fee: R70 – R90 per person.
Payment at the gate. Note: only cashless payments are accepted.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Address: Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town
Opening hours: 08:30 – 17:30
Entrance fee: R230 per standard adult, R100 per person for South African residents.
An Experience for Everyone
From families enjoying a day out to seasoned art collectors and botanists, “Art Meets Nature” is an experience that resonates with audiences young and old. Whether wandering through the Boomslang walkway in Kirstenbosch, reflecting along the paths of Walter Sisulu, or taking in Pretoria’s diverse plant species, visitors will leave with a renewed appreciation for both art and the environment.
Enquire about a Sculpture
About Anton Smit
Born in Boksburg in 1954, Anton Smit has established himself as one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. His sculptures, which explore themes of humanity, faith, and transcendence, have been showcased in global art capitals such as New York, Rome, and Amsterdam. From monumental installations to intricate abstracts, Smit’s works invite viewers into a poignant exploration of existence and connection. View more of Anton Smit’s Sculpture Portfolio here.
About SANBI
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) manages South Africa’s National Botanical and Zoological Gardens, contributing to biodiversity conservation and research. Founded in 2004, SANBI is a national leader in biodiversity research and conservation, promoting awareness of the importance of South Africa’s diverse flora and fauna.
Collaboration with Anton Smit
Anton and SANBI started the collaboration in 2024 to showcase his thought-provoking sculptures within the gardens. The partnership between these two organisations highlights the intersection of art and nature, creating a unique experience for visitors. Smit’s sculptures are strategically placed throughout the gardens, encouraging visitors to engage with both the natural environment and the artwork.
ALL FEATURED ARTWORKS – AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE
To Find out more | Commission a Sculpture, kindly email: info@antonsmit.co.za
The exhibitions are already open for public viewing at the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s (SANBI) National Botanical Gardens in Kirstenbosch Cape Town and in Pretoria, Gauteng. A third exhibition is now now also open at SANBI’s Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden in Roodepoort, Gauteng. The viewing of these exquisite pieces is already included in the entrance fee to each Garden. Just click their respective links to view the relevant fees.
So, whether you’re an art lover or a family wishing to spend time together amid the splendour of South Africa’s flora, come join us in celebrating our connection with everything around us at the junction where art meets nature.
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Art Works at Kirstenbosch Gardens
Born in Boksburg in August 1954, Anton entered his first sculpting exhibition at the age of sixteen and won first prize. Following successful exhibitions in White River, Nelspruit, Pretoria and Cape Town, Smit turned to sculpting full-time.
In 1990, international recognition came in the form of exhibitions in Rome and Milan, an invitation to exhibit in New York and Hong Kong, as well as a return exhibition in Italy in 1993. More exhibitions followed in Bonn, Washington, Singapore and Koln.
His body of work comprises towering human figures, nudes, heads, masks, hands, angels, floating and stretching figures, warriors, as well as abstract works, sculpted out of steel, metal, stone and a unique iron and polymer cast mixture, as well as bronze.
Anton’s work is included in the permanent collections of the Pretoria Art Museum, Rupert Museum, Graff/Delaire Collection, University of Pretoria Museums , Century City Art Foundation.
VIEW MORE OF ANTON SMIT SCULPTURE PORTFOLIO HERE
About Anton Smit Sculptures
Address: Black Eagle Lane, Aqua Vista Mountain Estate, Bronkhorstspruit dam, 1020
South Africa