“Each of us is as intimately attached to the soil of this beautiful country as are the famous jacaranda trees of Pretoria and the mimosa trees of the bushveld – a rainbow nation at peace with itself and the world.” — Nelson Mandela

I grew up in a Rainbow Nation, my parents having moved to Johannesburg, South Africa when I was 4 years old. My earliest memories are of the big open fields of tall, dry grass, hot summers and blue skies. Endless blue skies. And rainbows after the thunderstorm on a hot summer day on the highveld. My parents loved to travel. We had a bright yellow VW Camper and I was privileged to spend many childhood holidays driving through the African bush on safari or hiking in the Magaliesberg or Drakensberg mountains.

Africa touched my heart then, and continues to do so today, even though I live far away in Germany. When I close my eyes, I can see the colours of a purple Jacaranda tree in bloom, hear the sounds of the Fish Eagle or smell the ripe, sweet mango. I have a deep love for the country, its people, the diverse culture and wild nature.

My new “African Collection” is an expression of my love for Africa, it’s colour, energy and vibrancy.