Mandy Lake

For me, the question of what to paint has always been answered by the vast, enigmatic oceans. Here on the South African coast, I find myself in a profound and intimate connection with these primal waters. My art isn't about distant seascapes; it's about close-up encounters with the sea's raw power and exquisite fragility. I strive to capture the sheer splendor of each unique moment, aiming to ignite in viewers that deep, shared affinity and longing for the sea – a thrilling, primeval pull that I believe resides within us all. If my paintings can evoke even a brief resonance with that ancient connection, then my purpose as an artist is fulfilled.

Mandy Lake is an emerging artist, working primarily in oils. Mandy studied art and design and has a professional career in design, illustration and publishing. Since joining the Spencer Street Studios in 2009 Mandy has dedicated her time to painting.

Formal education:
1989 Bachelor of Arts (UCT), History and Art History
1991-1993 Foundation School of Art, Cape Town, illustration and sculpture

Studied under:
André Naudé (Roedean School, 1983-5)
Simon Stone (Foundation school of Art, JHB, 1984-5)
Ryno Swart (Ruth Prowse, Cape Town, 1987)
Julia Teale and Douglas Gimberg (Spencer Street Studio, 2009-2014)

Biophilia, The Gallery Ballito, 2025
Abstract: Synchrony Revealed, Jan Rupert Art Centre, 2025
Summer Saloon, The Cape Gallery 2025
What Lies Beneath, Collaboration, Youngblood Gallery, 2024
The Sea, the Sea, The Cape Gallery 2024
Featured Artist, Noordhoek Artpoint, 2023
Phenomenal Cape, The Cape Gallery, 2022
Association of Visual Arts, Member's exhibition, 2021
Summer exhibition, The Studio Gallery, 2019
Summer exhibition’ a group exhibition, The Studio Gallery, 2018
Sheer Water: a solo exhibition, The Cape Gallery, 2018
Immersion: a solo exhibition, The Cape Gallery, 2016
Black on Black, Spencer Street, Woodstock 2014
Studio Exhibition, Spencer Street, Woodstock, 2012