The Artist

During his travels across Africa he became fascinated by the potential of functional art, which finally found true expression when he began experimenting with ostrich eggshell a few years ago.

Today, he lives in the town of Prince Albert in the Karoo and works with a group of talented locals to produce AVOOVA ostrich eggshell mosaics. His work has attracted the attention of the media, from décor magazines to television stations and has been exhibited in several exclusive galleries in South Africa and abroad.

Enthusiasts worldwide agree that Engelbrecht is an exceptional talent and will often go to extraordinary lengths to secure one of his magnificent pieces.

The Community

The manufacture of AVOOVA ostrich eggshell mosaics provides a valuable benefit to the remote, rural community of Prince Albert. The demand for these products creates job opportunities in an area where mounting unemployment is breaking up families, forcing many to move to cities. With employment comes new skills and training and a brighter future for the employees and their dependants.

The staff are immensely proud of the beautiful pieces they help to produce and many of the designs incorporate their own individual contributions.

The Link to the Rest of the World

All of Gideon’s work is marketed and sold through the Cape Town showroom and offices of Cape Originals Pty Ltd.

For further information on any aspect of the products or services or should you wish to visit the showroom, please contact Tom Goddard on +27 (21) 419 1620 or send an email to Cape Originals. (For full contact details please click here).