ILSE KLEYN

In 2006, after a career of 16 years in the South African Police Force, I decided to follow my dream. I sold 103 paintings as a fulltime artist that year. Today my work is sold to art lovers all over the world. I am intrigued by the human form, mind and spirit. I strive to capture a person's character, to portray the essence of their soul, as well as the frustration, pride, strength, love, wisdom and humor displayed when one finally accepts oneself as God has made them. My work evolves, as I evolve. It is precise, full of detail, rich with color and depth. I aim to paint timeless pieces with a message of hope to all generations - not just a piece of art to decorate a wall.

'The figurative paintings exhibit strength in a resolute and well-defined body of work. The orchestrated structure and form provide a perspective of rarefied atmosphere and dramatic appeal'. Angela Di Bello (Director of Agora Gallery & Editor-in-Chief of ARTisSpectrum Magazine, New York).