An Unforgettable Unveiling of La Source

Friday last week was a truly special day, the unveiling of ‘La Source: The Berg River from source to sea’ at Haut Espoir was a huge success.

Among the many very special guests, Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve was honoured to host the Khoi King, his majesty Goab Khoebaha Calvin Cornelius 111 and the Queen Jeanette.

Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve welcomed the guests to the event, in the warmly lit tasting room at Haut Espoir, introducing the Biosphere and giving the programme of the event.

Councillor du Plessis followed with a speech.

The anticipating crowd was led to the first room of the wine cellar, where they gathered for an emotion-filled ceremony. His majesty giving a heart-felt speech, unveiled the painting, placing emphasis on the importance of the river and the natural environment around it. How our individual choices shape our surroundings.

As the door was opened, presenting the 20-meter-long artwork hanging above the barrels, the guests were completely blown away by the mere size of it. As they settled into the room, and looked closer, they could see the details of animals, people, and plant life from past to present. The biodiversity that it supports. The Khoi King gave thanks in three different interpretations of his 'mother tongue' after which networking and questions about the painting followed.  

The unveiling was followed by a musical piece, especially composed for a group of young adults who will be receiving hearing aids through the funds raised from the painting while it travels overseas. This will be one of the many youth projects that the painting will support.

The painting was also available to view over the weekend during the Uncorked Festival. Over 500 people visited.  

It will now be going on a journey to Europe, where it will first be displayed at the Annual Dutch Art Fair from the 12th  - 14th October, followed by a trip to Luxembourg and more.

Department of Environmental Affairs representative, the CWBR team, and artist Charles Frank, and friend

Dala paint owner, representative, and artist

Speeches

Introduction to painting

The Unveiling