Kei River Mouth (2021) Painting by Jan Raats

In my time I have been an electronics and power system and nuclear engineer, a strategist, a project manager, a humanitarian and an artist. A career path linked by creativity and innovative thinking.

In ill health after my Mission in South Sudan with the United Nations, I was diagnosed with Type 1 late-onset diabetes. Which I manage through lifestyle, supported by medication. A strict low carbohydrate diet and vigorous exercise minimises the need for medication and controls my trampolining blood sugars. I still have frozen fingers and toes and get grumpy too often, however, I’m able to enjoy a glass of wine and run and cycle like a madman.

Covid has influenced my current body of work that incorporates recycled plastic water bottle butterflies. Sustainable. The growing urgency To protect our heritage. In aesthetic bands of equal width, taking inspiration from the Abstract Expressionists. Mark-making using saltbush to create abstract artworks.

Initially trained at the Johannesburg College of Art, I have won numerous international awards, exhibited nationally and internationally. I enjoy commissions, working with you to ensure that the special piece of art you have in mind is a fun and collaborative experience.

Please contact me by email, stop past the studio ‘Jandreart Studio’ on Thesen Harbour Town or schedule a private consultation.

• Nationality: SOUTH AFRICA
• Date of birth : 1958
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary South African Artists