Justinus Khoalibe, Ben Botma, Christiaan Diedericks, and Andries Gouws, each a master of mark-making in their chosen medium, left an indelible impression on the South African art world before their passing in 2024 and 2025. 

To honour them, collections manager at Oliewenhuis, Yolanda de Kock, joins Yolanda Maartens in the OFM Art Beat to share all the details of this very personal exhibition, which is on display until 6 April.

Honoring the Masters: A Tribute to Four Icons of South African Art

Currently showing at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, Marks of Mastery is more than just an art gallery display; it is a profound celebration of life, legacy, and the physical act of creation. 

The exhibition pays tribute to four extraordinary artists, Justinus Khoalibe, Ben Botma, Christiaan Diedericks, and Andries Gouws, all of whom were pillars of the Oliewenhuis permanent collection.

The Power of the ‘Mark’

The theme of the exhibition centers on a simple but deep truth: every mark matters. Whether it is a chisel hitting wood or a fine needle scratching a copper plate, these artists used their tools to leave a permanent imprint on the South African soul. 

One Remarkable Legacy

The exhibition brings together four distinct styles, each offering a different way of seeing the world.

Justinus Khoalibe (1937–2024)

Crucifixion by Justinus Khoalibe on display at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum. Photo supplied 

The Intuitive Carver, self-taught and deeply authentic, Khoalibe’s wood carvings are a testament to natural talent. Starting as a farm child molding clay, he grew into a master of wood. His work is “honest”; you can see the hand of the artist in every carved line, unmediated by formal academic rules.

Ben Botma (1953–2025)

‘Toegang II’ by Ben Botma on display at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum. Photo supplied 

The Philosophical Mark-Maker Botma was fascinated by the surface of the land. His haunting, large-scale charcoal drawings and etchings often focused on empty landscapes. He asked a haunting question through his work: Who left these marks on the earth? His work is a beautiful bridge between process and philosophy.

Christiaan Diedericks (1965–2025) 

The Master of Precision. Widely regarded as one of the country’s greatest printmakers, Diedericks’ work is a masterclass in detail. His linocuts and etchings are intellectually rigorous and emotionally resonant, balancing the “science” of printmaking with a deep sense of irony and beauty.

Andries Gouws (1952–2025) 

‘Bar of Soap’ by Andries Gouws on display at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum. Photo supplied 

The Poetry of the Mundane Gouws had the incredible ability to make the ordinary look extraordinary. Through miniature painted still lifes, he forced viewers to slow down and look at simple objects, a bar of soap, a cloth, a cupboard, with fresh eyes. His brushstrokes prove there is magic in the things we usually overlook.

This exhibition is a rare opportunity to see how these four different “voices” harmonise. It’s a space for contemplation and a chance to honor the artists who helped shape our visual culture.

• Dates: On display until Monday, 6 April.

• Location: Oliewenhuis Art Museum, 16 Harry Smith Street, Bloemfontein.

• Hours: Mon–Fri (08:00–17:00), Sat–Sun & public holidays (09:00–16:00).

• Cost: Entrance is free (Please note there is a R10 parking fee, cash only).

• Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible via a ramp and an internal lift.

For more behind-the-scenes details, keep an eye on the Oliewenhuis social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, and X).