Denis Hilton Lees

Denis was born on a farm in Gweru, Zimbabwe, and spent much of his younger years in the African bush where he developed a keen interest for nature.

He qualified at Wits in 1984, embarking on a graphic design career that would involve illustrating, package design and publication.

In 1992 Denis began dedicating more time to painting landscapes in oil and art in general.

Since then he has opened numerous private art schools. His first was in Johannesburg in 1993 and a year later he began an art school in Knysna. Then in 1998 he moved to Cape Town. It wasn't long before he discovered the beauty of the West Coast and opened a studio in Jacobsbaai where he taught and painted full time.

Denis began experimenting in all media, but his favourite medium was still oil. He uses collage and gold and silver foil in his artwork as well.

His series of Paternoster fishing boats became really popular, from large to small canvases and on blocked board, really capturing the feel of the West Coast.

Denis and his wife, Laura, and their children then spent some time in Taiwan before returning to South Africa.

Laura worked in mosaic and clay and created a beautiful set of white ceramic bowls during their time in Jacobsbaai.