We say goodbye
Art.b mourns the death of Theo Kleynhans
Theo Kleynhans — A Life Dedicated to Art and Creativity
Kleynhans was an exceptionally versatile artist who moved effortlessly between painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking and mixed media. His artistic expression was deeply influenced by themes of memory, loss, nostalgia and the fleeting nature of human experience. He explored how memories shape our identities, recognising that we can never fully recapture the past. Among his best-known creations were his distinctive ceramic plates, playful bear sculptures and imaginative objects incorporating found materials. His work combined symbolism, humour and thoughtful observation, inviting viewers to look beyond the surface and discover deeper meanings. His art found its way into private collections and public spaces in South Africa and abroad, and he exhibited internationally, including in the United States, the United Kingdom and Spain.
Theo Kleynhans (30 November 1965 – 13 October 2026) was a celebrated South African artist, sculptor, ceramicist, playwright, writer and art curator whose remarkable creativity and enthusiasm for life left a lasting impression on the country’s art world. Born in Welkom in the Free State, he grew up attending Goudveld High School and Welkom Gymnasium. He pursued his studies at several institutions, including the University of Pretoria, the University of Houston in Texas, the University of South Africa and Rand Afrikaans University. In addition to his artistic education, he trained as a social worker, a background that complemented his interest in people, their experiences and the complexities of human life.
Beyond his own artistic practice, Kleynhans made an important contribution to South Africa’s cultural life through his work as an art curator. He served the visual arts programmes of the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival (KKNK), the Stellenbosch Woordfees and the Aardklop National Arts Festival. He was particularly passionate about making art accessible to ordinary people, helping audiences understand and appreciate works that might otherwise seem intimidating. His guided exhibition tours encouraged visitors to engage with art more confidently, develop their own interpretations and even begin collecting artworks. He also worked as an art director on international film and television projects, wrote plays and art reviews, and mentored artists and others who sought his advice. His achievements were recognised through awards including the Dreams Award, the Plascon Painting Prize and the South African Breweries Sculpture Award.
In July 2026, Kleynhans was diagnosed with liver cancer. Faced with this devastating news, he chose to celebrate life, friendship and his creative journey through an exhibition entitled You Think You’ve Got Time, held at Art B Gallery in Bellville on 29 August 2026. The exhibition reflected his determination to honour the experiences and relationships that had shaped his life. He died in Porterville on 13 October 2026, aged 60. Remembered for his sharp wit, generosity, boundless energy and willingness to share his knowledge, Theo Kleynhans leaves behind a rich artistic legacy. His life demonstrated that art is not merely about creating beautiful objects, but also about connecting people, preserving memories and finding meaning in the time we have.