ARTISTS IN PARYS
Maria Magdalena Claassen
Maria Magdalena Claassen is a talented South African artist whose career spans several decades and showcases her dedication to both art and education .
Born in 1956 , Claassen pursued her passion for the visual arts by obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from Stellenbosch University in 1978 . This foundational education set the stage for her future endeavors in both teaching and creating art .
Early Career and Personal Life
After completing her degree , Claassen began her professional journey as an art educator at Diamantveld Hoërskool during 1978 and 1979 . In 1981 , she married Conrad von Maltitz , a fruit farmer in Ficksburg , where they lived until 2017 .
During this time , Claassen engaged in commission work , focusing particularly on painting the sandstone buildings characteristic of the region , which reflects her deep appreciation for local architecture and heritage .
Artistic Development and Teaching
From 2018 to 2021 , Claassen relocated to Bloemfontein , where she continued to inspire others through her art classes for adults at Villa Avianto .
Her commitment to art education extended to teaching at Edulife School in Olive Ridge . During this period , she also held solo exhibitions at Gallery on Leviseur , showcasing her work alongside that of art students in collaborative displays .
Recent Work and Current Endeavors
In pursuit of family ties , Claassen moved to Parys to be closer to her children . Currently , she focuses on capturing the beauty of Parys ’ s architecture , businesses , and landscapes in her paintings . Her ongoing work continues to reflect her artistic evolution and connection to her surroundings . Maria Magdalena Claassen ’ s journey as an artist is marked by a blend of teaching , community engagement , and a profound love for the visual arts that she shares with both students and art enthusiasts alike .
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