I’m so proud to share that my mom, Bonita Fourie, was selected for the TOP 50 and then the TOP 25 in the J-BAC Art Competition with her painting submission.
The competition’s theme, “Neighbourhood Lens”, invited artists to capture everyday life and experiences in the Kouga area. My mom’s painting was deeply inspired by her surroundings and her heart for community, and it was a wonderful recognition to see her work move forward through two rounds of judging.
Although she didn’t make it to the TOP 15, this achievement is still something truly worth celebrating. Art competitions are incredibly competitive, with so many talented creatives pouring their vision, emotions, and skill onto the canvas. Reaching the TOP 25 shows the strength, beauty, and impact of her work.
For me, what makes this moment so special is not just the result, but the journey. I’ve watched my mom paint with such passion and dedication—art is not only her creative outlet, but also a way of processing and sharing the world around her. Every brushstroke tells a story, and this recognition is a reminder that those stories resonate with others too.
Well done, Mom! 🌸🎨 Your creativity continues to inspire me and so many others.
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Entering The Harbour of Restoration
Bonita Fourie
My painting, Harbour of Healing, was inspired by the people who arrive in Jeffreys Bay each year, seeking a fresh start. The ship battling through stormy seas represents those coming from Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Johannesburg, and beyond—often weary from life’s challenges. The waves and dark clouds speak of the physical, spiritual, and emotional struggles they carry with them. Yet, in the distance, Jeffrey’s Bay’s shores offer a place of safety and renewal, a reminder that storms do not last forever.
For me, this painting is not just about others—it also reflects my own journey of navigating life’s uncertainties and finding peace in unexpected harbours. Jeffreys Bay, with its warm community and restorative coastal life, is a place where brokenness can be mended, and hope can be rekindled.
Painting has always been my sanctuary. Whenever life feels overwhelming, I turn to my brushes and colours. The process slows my mind, quiets my thoughts, and allows me to breathe. Every brushstroke becomes an act of release—layering not only paint but also healing over my own stresses. I’ve learned to embrace the journey of painting without rushing to the final image, much like embracing life itself.
Through this piece, I wanted to honour both the resilience of those weathering life’s storms and the gift of community that Jeffrey’s Bay offers. It is a tribute to new beginnings, second chances, and the safe harbours we all long for.
