The Karoo seems to inspire different people to different things. Music, poetry, writing and definitely art. Marguerite Beneke is just such a person and she has been completely inspired by the Karoo in developing her art form. The Karoo delivers the most amazing sunsets, early morning sunrises and full moon starlit evenings. A study of light in the Karoo can only be inspirational and that’s what has captured the imagination and artistic inspiration of Marguerite Beneke, a glass artist resident in Aberdeen on the Karoo’s N9.

Marguerite Beneke was born in 1973, grew up in Pretoria, was always interested in art although mostly painting in acrylics and oils, it was glass that fascinated her the most.

“It is a marvelous medium to work with – responsive to the direction and degree of light…it is illuminated by light’s reflection and transmission.” says Marguerite as she excitedly reflects on her artform.

Whilst working as a trainer in the corporate world, she started doing stained glass as a hobby and experimented with etching and painting on glass. She soon was hooked on glass as a medium and started experimenting and developing her skills with great results.

In 2003 her and her husband decided to move way from busy city life and settle in the quaint Karoo town of Aberdeen where she started her career as a full-time glass artist.
“I’m self-taught and consider myself a “constant student”, experimenting with new techniques to produce both beautiful and functional pieces.”

Her inspiration lies in the nature that surrounds her, especially the striking colours and sights of the Great Karoo.
“Each of my pieces is created with those perceptions.”

As the Karoo continues to produce spectacularly beautiful moments for those who take the trouble to see, so Marguerite continues to grow as an evolving Karoo glass artist, reflecting in her work the beauty of the Karoo and the special qualities and secrets which are revealed to those who appreciate the Karoo ambiance.

Tel: +27 (0)49 8460691
Cell: 082 787 2001
e-mail: beneke.pm@telkomsa.net
www.margueritebeneke.co.za