Typically, in his modesty, Karel cannot sing his own praises. Perhaps this is one of his most enchanting qualities, along with compassion, understanding, integrity, plus a wicked and sharp sense of humour. A man with an unfailing passion for things delicate, beautiful and honest.

Karel du Toit was born in Rustenburg, South Africa in 1976. Shall I rather say that is according to his parents, as Karel seems to believe that he came into this world by being lured from behind a toilet with a fresh Marie biscuit many years ago. He attended school in Potchefstroom, a small, flat and dusty South African outpost in the then Western Transvaal, and eventually established himself in Knysna in 1993.

When asked for some details to write this piece, Karel supplied the following:

• Shoe size 13
• 1.9m tall
• Weight 96 Kg
• Hazel eyes
• Brown Hair

Well not a whole lot to go on, but fortunately I have personally had the pleasure of watching Karel develop into one of South Africa’s finest sculptors, and at that, one who has had no formal training. I first met Karel when he was employed by one of Knysna’s best known and oldest established companies, namely Feathers of Knysna. It was here, that although Karel had been employed to pursue an avenue that was not of an artistic nature, he soon became involved in the design and orchestration of the famous wooden carved birds and wildlife sculptures which were being produced. Karel’s contact with clay had been limited, as I understand, to creating little clay oxen in the family garden as a child. A pursuit that many rural children enjoy, was now to come out of dormancy and manifest itself in some amazing and beautifully executed sculptures.

From small wildlife figurines, which became part of the Feathers range, Karel moved rapidly into larger bronze items, taking private commissions from individuals who were now also seeing his work in local galleries.

Experimentation with castings done at some of South Africa’s best known foundries led Karel to select and use the facilities and expertise of Renzo Vignali Artistic Foundry. Established in 1931, this is the oldest and most revered artistic foundry in South Africa, headed by Carlo Gamberini, a man whose family has been involved in casting the works of some of this countries best know and loved artists such as Anton van Wouw and William Kentridge.

2006 sees Karel embark on a fulltime sculpting career. A collusion and collaboration of brilliant artistry and casting expertise, brings to you the beholder, truly fine and collectable artworks. Ones that you will look back on, and wish you had acquired.

Enjoy them with the passion that has brought them into to this world.

Emily.