PRESS RELEASE
GARY STEPHENS | Sancta Botanica
Jan 17 – Feb 8, 2026
GARY STEPHENS | Sancta Botanica
17 January 2026 - 8 February 2026
Everard Read Franschhoek
20 Huguenot Road
OPENING RECEPTION: Saturday, 24 January 2026 at 11AM.
Gary Stephens’ latest body of work, Sancta Botanica, celebrates the wonder of Southern Africa’s diverse landscape. The exhibition features an array of indigenous birds and plants where the sometimes-harsh terrain is dotted with almost otherworldly baobabs (those ancient repositories of vegetal wisdom), aloes and acacia trees. These elements also appear within the large-scale portraits for which Stephens is internationally known, where figures are surrounded by or merged with botanical forms.
Born in Arizona, Stephens grew up hiking in the desert, an experience that shaped both his artistic practice and his relationship with nature. Early experiments with watercolour and close observation of light - from dawn through sunset - led him to focus on capturing the fleeting atmosphere of place. Now working at the height of his technical and creative confidence, Stephens shows us his vision - a new way of looking at our incomparable landscape.
His work reflects a sustained interest in patterns and visual rhythm, including geometric repetition, textile motifs, and plant forms. Stephens uses a process of taping, layering, and folding to create vertical pleats in his works on paper. This technique introduces movement, as the image shifts subtly when viewed from different angles. The images are carefully planned and intentionally distorted before pleating, allowing line and colour to change as the viewer moves - enhancing the sense of magic and wonder through the subtle vibrancy of shifting colour.
In Sancta Botanica, each work reflects the sense of refuge and clarity that Stephens finds in nature. Through portraits and landscapes alike, the exhibition offers a considered and personal view of the natural world and its enduring presence.
EVERARD READ FRANSCHHOEK
20 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek, 7690
+27 21 876 2446 l fgallery@everard.co.za
Monday – Sunday | 09:30 - 17:00
If you are looking to add to your collection and you are unable to make it to our gallery during operating hours, please contact us via fgallery@everard.co.za to make an appointment outside of these hours.
