African Illustrators 2 Fabric Collection by Hertex

WORDS Cheri Morris

Local artists Sarah Kelly, Elma Nelson, Felicity Ellis and Sharon Boonzaier reimagine the African wilderness’ sprawling indigenous flora and fauna in a uniquely South African follow-up fabric collection for Hertex, African Illustrators 2.

Each of the artists’ hand-drawn designs was transferred from canvas to cloth – specifically a luxurious viscose-linen base to give their renderings greater effect. The result? A range of intricate designs for every mood and space, ideal for styling scatters, headboards and more.

About the artists and their works

Artist Sarah Kelly finds daily inspiration in the African bushveld that surrounds the farm she lives on, and her contribution to the collection celebrates South Africa’s agricultural heritage. Route 62 presents familiar features of the Karoo in arresting detail, while Bella Montana’s lively lemons set against a white background lend an outdoor bistro feel and Winelands sees an iconic Cape harvest in full vigour. Contrasting the botanical-themed textiles are contemporary fabrics with a bold geometric element; a nod to the bird’s eye view of patterned farmlands and other landscapes.

Having grown up on a farm in KwaZulu-Natal, it was only natural for textile designer Felicity Ellis to bring her admiration for the resplendent local flora, her love of drawing and painting and her appreciation of the act of creating something from nothing to the collection. Avondale, Little Prince and Rainwashed were conceptualised during 2020 lockdown and speak of a deepened appreciation of nature. “Despite what humans are doing, Mother Nature continues to give freely. Through my designs, I hope to convey the beauty of nature’s bountiful generosity,” she says.

Artist and designer Elma Nelson’s affinity for the life-giving force of fire inspired Ignite, a trinity of colours and designs that tell the tale of “burning to bloom”. Here, the relationship between fynbos and fire is poignantly retold through brushstrokes. “The flames destroy fynbos but also begin a process of germination and the opportunity for new growth.” The three colourways in the range speak to phases in the lifecycle of fynbos: Veld Green is full of life, while fynbos in the midst of fire plays out in Flame, and Afterglow signals the rebirth from ash.

Artist and décor specialist Sharon Boonzaier uses her hallmark fresh colours and spontaneous fluidity in Peaches – a design inspired by summer escapes that disconnect to reconnect. “Everybody loves to bite into a juicy, delicious, sweet peach! It reminds me of lazy sun-kissed days at my best friend’s farm in the Cederberg, where peaches drip like manna from the trees and we’d gorge ourselves on fruit and good times. We’d swim in milky water and enjoy the aromas of hot coals and a sizzling braai under a giant eucalyptus tree. Those were good times – this particular artwork embodies all that is good about life and love in the countryside.”

Love this collection? Shop it here. Looking for more textile inspiration? Check out Stockholm-based illustrator and pattern designer Alexander Adiels‘ works here.