A 56-year-old visual artist from Pretoria east has captivated the art world with her emotionally charged works that reflect her lifelong passion for nature and light.
Sonja Arndt was born on May 4 1969, in Pretoria, where her artistic journey began.
She is currently working on a painting that is going to be exhibited at Art Alive at Waterkloof House Preparatory School (WHPS) in June.
Arndt was raised in a family with a keen appreciation for the arts.
Her early exposure to art was influenced by her father’s diplomatic career, which took the family to Buenos Aires for three years.
It was there that she first discovered her love for creative expression.
“Living in Buenos Aires opened my eyes to the different forms of art,” said Arndt.
Her time at The Masters School in New York further nurtured her creative spirit.
She said both her parents, avid art lovers, took her to galleries and museums, deepening her art appreciation.
After completing her schooling at Pro Arte in Pretoria east in 1987, Arndt earned a diploma in fine arts from Technikon Pretoria and soon began to carve out her space in the world of visual arts.
From painting to graphic design, murals for restaurants and private homes, she said her versatility became one of her trademarks.
She has exhibited her work in prominent galleries, including Gallery Riette in Heidelberg and JVH in Pretoria, and regularly participates in Art Alive at WHPS, where she shares her passion with fellow South African artists.
Her work, characterised by flowing lines and rich colours, often revolves around nature and light.
She shared that her fish-themed paintings, which capture the essence of water’s movement and reflection, have become particularly popular.
Arndt said she was influenced by artists such as Judith Mason, Gustav Klimt, Joan Miró, and JMW Turner.
Her pieces blend earthy tones with soft shades of white and beige, creating works that are as serene as they are striking.
She said her time spent in Dubai between 2006 and 2016 allowed her to work as a private art tutor for Arab families and expatriates.
During this period, she also collaborated with Bulgarian artists, learning from their vast experience in Europe’s art scene.
Arndt’s works have since been collected in countries around the globe, including Italy, Spain, the United States, Canada, and the UAE.
Arndt now resides in Waterkloof Ridge with her husband, Rolf, and their three sons.
She said she finds inspiration in the calm surroundings of this leafy neighbourhood.
“It’s the perfect place for reflection and creativity,” she said.
Arndt continues to balance her art with life in a fast-paced world, also offering intimate art workshops that encourage others to explore their creative side.
“Art is not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about connecting with people, expressing ourselves, and slowing down in a world that is constantly on the move.”
Despite her success, Arndt acknowledges the challenges artists face, particularly in finding financial support for their craft.
“Art is often admired but rarely funded,” she said.
Looking to the future, Arndt hopes to continue exhibiting her work while inspiring others.
“My dream is to leave behind a body of work that speaks for itself and continues to tell stories long after I’m gone.”
When she is not painting, Arndt enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the natural world that continues to fuel her creativity.
You can find her latest work and updates on her Instagram page, @sonja_arndt_art.
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