Meet Colin Frank Thwaits: A Childhood Spent Outdoors

Colin was born on January 25, 1955, in Bulawayo Rhodesia, and grew up in Salisbury. During his youth, he spent most of his time outdoors, exploring the vast landscapes of the Matoppos, Chimanimani Mountains, and Zambezi.

His love for nature and wonderment of life were evident from a young age.

The Thwaits family has a rich artistic heritage. Thomas Thwaits, Colin's ancestor, moved from England to Cape Town in the mid-1800s, where he became the Art Master at the Reverend James Becks School in Roland Street. Thomas's granddaughter, Emily Thwaits, was an accomplished artist whose floral works are still displayed in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town.

Colin is one of 4 siblings, second son to Des and Norma Thwaits.

Colin's Unique Artistic Journey: A Story of Trial and Error

Colin's style of artistry was never bound by formalities or constraints, but rather developed through years of experimentation and practice. He recalls fondly how his mother would encourage him to paint in the vlei, where he would often find himself captivated by the natural beauty of the Weeping Willows and Cosmos flowers that surrounded him.

Despite his struggles to capture the vastness of the landscape, he found solace in the closeness he felt with God, which filled his heart and soul with a sense of purpose. Colin eventually began to capture his reflections on canvas, using Acrylics as his medium of choice.

It wasn't until many years later that his wife, Johanita, pointed out that his art seemed like conversations with his soul. If you find yourself drawn to one of his paintings, know that you are sharing a unique moment in time with him.

Meet Colin's Multicultural Family

Colin, a proud father of five, has four sons from his first marriage and is now happily married to Johanita. Together, they are raising NiRita, Johanita's daughter, as a couple.

Their diverse family is united by their love of food, wine, coffee, philosophy, books, art, color combinations, travel, and their shared passion for being kind and compassionate human beings.

Colin is also a proud grandfather to seven youngsters, who have inherited the family's artistic talent. Whether sketching or painting for hours, their creations will soon be showcased on this page.

Their home base is in Somerset West, South Africa, where they live life to the fullest and cherish every moment together.