Tucked away in Ruimsig is a place that feels less like an art gallery and more like stepping into a good friend’s cozy, art-filled home. Meet Alice Pretorius, the beating heart of Alice Art Gallery … a woman who lives for art, people, and a good glass of red wine.
Alice Pretorius’ love affair with art started at 21 when she bought her very first piece. That one painting lit a spark that eventually turned her walls, and her life, into a canvas of creativity. Fast forward a few decades, and this passion project is now a thriving gallery loved by both artists and collectors.
But she didn’t exactly take the pretty, paint-splattered road from the start. She kicked off her career with a BSc in Computer Science (yes, really). From coding to door-to-door sales, then to running a framing shop (to reframe that first painting), Alice eventually reframed her life – literally and figuratively – when she opened the gallery in 1990. Her first big-name artist, Father Frans Claerhout, who not only exhibited but became a dear friend over the years.
Today, Alice Art Gallery showcases works from some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. Think Este Mostert, Johan Smit and Cornelius Bosch (who she met by chance under a tree in Graskop) to name just a few. From there, the artists found her.
‘But it’s not just about famous names’ Alice says. ‘I’m also passionate about giving up-and-coming talent a platform. Which is why we host frequent Art in the Garden events. It’s like a launchpad for fresh voices, offering a chance to learn, grow, and thrive in the art world.
‘It’s very difficult to move from painting as a hobby to painting as an occupation. And over time, I have witnessed many artists developing their style over time to become some of our bestselling artists in the gallery.’
For her, art is an experience. Especially at the gallery. She wants everyone to feel at home, whether they’re seasoned collectors or just dipping a toe into the art world. Oh, and while you’re soaking up everything artsy, don’t miss the Harvest Café. A foodie haven run by the talented Chef Danika van der Walt. With its fresh vibe and lovely menu, it’s become a reason on its own to stop by.
She believes everyone has a spark of creativity … it’s just about finding your medium. For her, that spark is connecting with people, discovering new artists, and helping clients find that one perfect piece of art. And yes, she’s still an avid collector herself, always buying with her heart.
When she’s not at the gallery, and has a moment or two to spare, she loves spending it with her family – four fiercely independent kids and a beloved granddaughter, Emma Sophia, as well as maintaining her backyard chicken empire (what started with two chicks is now a full-blown coop for 40), diving, fishing and travelling with friends. Which makes sense really, as she was diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Instead of seeing it as a challenge, she’s embraced it as her superpower. Fueling her creativity, fearlessness, and knack for seeing patterns where others see chaos.
So, what’s next? A long-held dream is about to come to life. A sculpture garden at the gallery, set to open this year. And knowing Alice, it’s bound to be something extraordinary.
From her first painting to building a gallery that’s a second home to artists and collectors, Alice has painted a life full of passion, connection, and a whole lot of colour. If you haven’t visited yet, consider this your official invitation. Because, as Alice herself says, they’re still the best-kept secret in the West Rand.
Details: Visit @Alice Art Gallery on Facebook and Insta
Q&A with Alice
Some of the most well-known artists to have graced the gallery with their work?
Adriaan Boshoff, Clearhout, Portchie, Michael Heyns and Hennie Niemann Snr.
Three questions new collectors should ask themselves before buying art?
Firstly, do I love it? It’s the most important question. When clients become collectors, other questions will arise like does it fit my current collection or will I get a return on this investment?
Your personal art style?
It takes a long time to build a great collection. My private collection consists mostly of Portchie, Michael Heyns and Adriaan Boshoff. However, I have an astronomical amount of artists hanging from corner to corner of every wall in my home.
Upcoming events
February 02. Retail therapy in the garden. Think thrifted treasures, handmade crafts, and unique artworks all waiting to be discovered in a lovely outdoor setting. Hosted every first Sunday of each month.
February 14. Celebrate art and life at an exclusive walkabout with the iconic Giorgio Trobec on his 81st birthday.
February 22 & 23. Anton Gericke’s For the Love of Colour exhibition will be an explosion of vibrancy and joy. His bold use of hues will turn every canvas into a feast for the eyes.
February 27. Dive into the buzz and excitement of a live auction. From coveted artworks to quirky collectibles, the treasures up for grabs will be thrilling to watch (or bid on).
Visit her Facebook page for times and more info.