NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS - The dusty roads and soulful stillness of Nieu-Bethesda once again proved to be fertile ground for creative inspiration, as Art Muse Collective hosted its 2nd annual Clay Sculpture Retreat from 28 July to 1 August.
This year’s retreat welcomed guest facilitator Dina Grobler, a celebrated sculptor known for her intuitive and expressive approach to clay portraiture.
Held in the heart of the Karoo, the immersive five-day workshop offered participants the opportunity to sculpt a clay portrait bust under the guidance of Grobler.
More than just a technical experience, the retreat invited artists and beginners alike to reconnect to their innate creativity - one of the core philosophies at the heart of Art Muse Collective.
Grobler, who holds a Fine Art degree from the University of the Free State and continues to lecture at the institution, guided six participants through the process of sculpting a clay portrait bust.
Her teaching style - sensitive, skilled, and tuned to each participant - set the tone for a workshop that went far beyond technique.
Maureen James and Dina Grobler Photo: Carike Schoeman
Art Muse Collective
Founded by artist and long-time Nieu-Bethesda resident, Sarina Engelbrecht, the Collective is dedicated to creating transformative art experiences in magical places.
“Art Muse Collective is built on the belief that everyone is creative - we just need the right environment and encouragement to unlock it.
I’m passionate about creating spaces where people can play, explore, and heal through art,” says Engelbrecht.
“The Karoo offers that perfect stillness and wild inspiration that opens people up. It’s a powerful place for creative breakthroughs.”
This year’s retreat drew a diverse group of creatives from East London, Gqueberha, Bloemfontein, Cape Town and Milnerton, each drawn to the small town’s mystique and reputation as a haven for artists.
Known as the home of the late Helen Martins and the iconic Owl House, Nieu-Bethesda continues to inspire with its raw beauty, eccentric charm, and deep artistic roots.
The retreat experience was enriched by immersive local offerings, including:
- A Karoo food experience, featuring traditional and gourmet dishes prepared by local cook Barbara Weitz
- A game drive through nearby landscapes teeming with wildlife and geological wonders
- A guided Bushman rock art tour, offering insight into ancient stories etched in stone
- An intimate tour of the historic Dutch Reformed Church, where echoes of time provide quiet reflection
Joanne Mukheibur and Dina Grobler Photo: Carike Schoeman
Community engagement
Community engagement lies at the heart of Art Muse Collective's ethos.
The retreat culminated in a public art exhibition at Alpha Greeff’s Studio Gallery, where participants proudly showcased their completed sculptures.
Villagers, friends, and fellow creatives gathered to celebrate not only the artistry but the vulnerability and courage it takes to create and share.
"Bringing the community into the final celebration makes it feel like more than just a retreat - it becomes a shared memory, a creative spark that spreads,” Engelbrecht says.
Art Muse Collective continues to shape unique experiences where creativity is not taught but remembered - through nature, community, and art.
With a growing following and future retreats already in planning, this initiative is fast becoming a cornerstone of South Africa’s art tourism landscape.
For more information on upcoming retreats, visit artmusecollective.co.za or follow @artmusecollective on social media.
Alpha Greeff working on her sculpture Photo: Joanne Mukheibir
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