Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden: An Artistic Delight in Stellenbosch

Curious about what we hadn't discovered after more than 20 years in this lovely city, we recently scheduled an appointment at the Sculpture Garden of Dylan Lewis. We had heard about it, read about it, and had once stood before closed doors. Finally, it was time. With no major expectations, we set out looking to be surprised. Before we even reached the ticket counter, we were impressed by the gardeners' work and the vibrant artistic atmosphere created by Dylan Lewis on his expansive estate. As we made our way from the parking lot to the charmingly restored coffee shop that serves excellent coffee, we encountered amazing sculptures throughout the landscape.

Even before we reached the ticket desk, our anticipation for the work of this artist grew.

But who is he? A native South African, 60 years old — these are the facts, but what else? According to a specialized art house in London:

"Dylan Lewis is Africa's internationally most renowned living figurative sculptor. Collectively, Lewis's bronze sculptures of big cats may offer the most compelling commentary on nature and wilderness that an artist of this era has produced. His cats are far more profound works than mere contemporary animal bronzes." In fact, they entirely question the lithe, almost boneless grace of these apex predators – creatures that inject palpable tension into any true wilderness through their mere presence.

After visiting, we can attest that this is no exaggeration. Before we left the historic reception building, once his studio, we felt utterly captivated. We had viewed a collection of casts made from a plaster-like material in the basement, showcasing merely one intermediary step toward the final bronze sculptures. Never before had we encountered such raw, breathtaking art crammed into a small space.

Still under the spell of this enchanting room, we bumped into Dylan Lewis himself just as we departed, which sparked the fleeting hope of being able to call one of those intermediary pieces our own — though, sadly, they are not for sale. Truly unfortunate, as the completed works lie well beyond our budget. He remains the only South African artist for whom Christies in London has held a solo auction, and that twice. The last event in 2018 was a sell-out.

Why this is no surprise becomes apparent on the more than hour-long winding walk through the park. Regrettably artistically inept, we found ourselves at a loss for words to adequately articulate the beauty of the sculptures and their garden surroundings. We felt profoundly moved by the talent and achievement of this man.

It took us over two hours before we could tear ourselves away from the beauty and atmosphere of this place. For us, it has now secured a place among the enchanting sites in the Winelands we certainly won't visit for the last time. While we acknowledge that the appreciation of art is subjective and dependent on the viewer's perspective, we extend our apologies to those who may not share our almost childlike enthusiasm. At least, you can enjoy the truly excellent coffee.