Natasha Taljaard

My name is Natasha Taljaard, and I am based in Pretoria, South Africa. My artistic practice centres on contemporary ornamental and decorative drawing, using pen and mixed media on paper and board. I begin with a recognisable subject, such as a butterfly, and develop abstract shapes and lines from there. Selected works are digitally edited, allowing additional elements to be layered into the compositions.

I was born and raised in Pretoria, where an early affinity for line and colour became a defining means of self-expression. I matriculated from Pro Arte High School, specialising in Design and Art, which fostered a lasting engagement with both digital graphic design and fine art. Although distinct, these interconnected disciplines have shaped my approach to both commercial work and mixed-media fine art practice.

After completing a National Diploma in Textile Design in 1994, my work evolved through an exploration of organic forms, ornamental structures, and the rhythmic qualities found in nature. After many years I returned to creating art in my free time, in 2022 when I realised I neglected it.

Alongside my fine art practice, I currently co-manage a Pretoria-based sublimation printing business, creating custom-designed clothing. ...

-1989: Matriculated - Pro Arté School of Art, Music, Ballet & Dama
-1994: National Diploma Textile Design - Pretoria Technikon
-2011: Adobe Creative Suite Workshop - Morning Star Design School -

2006: Sasol New Signatures Exhibition. I was one of 100 finalists selected for the national exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum. My triptych oil painting on canvas was purchased by the Department of Science and Technology.

2024: Group exhibition - 'Red Exhibition' Johan van Heerden Gallery