1970 - 2023
Thys Walters, born on June 8, 1970, in Stellenbosch, South Africa, developed a profound artistic sensibility rooted in his deep connection to the natural world. His early artistic inclinations were nurtured through art classes at the PJ Olivier Art Centre while attending High School Stellenbosch, from which he graduated in 1989. Following high school, he explored Industrial Design for two years. However, Walters’s diverse passions, notably his collection of animal specimens and his intense involvement in falconry – culminating in his co-founding of the Cape Falconry Club in 1991 – became the core inspiration for his artistic expression.
In 1992, Walters dedicated himself fully to sculpting, focusing on capturing the spirit of wildlife, particularly birds of prey, using raw, organic materials such as hardwood and sandstone. His commitment garnered international recognition through exhibitions like “Wild in de Natuur” in the Netherlands and the Deutscher Falkenorde Annual Meeting in Germany (both in 2006). His meticulous wax sculpting technique, especially for avian subjects, allowed for the intricate rendering of their feather details.
Beyond his sculptural work, Walters shared his expertise as a falconer and animal handler with film productions, including “Alaska,” “The Cell,” and the “Sinbad” TV series. He also passionately engaged in education through talks and demonstrations, notably collaborating with Johan Botha on SABC2’s “50/50” to highlight his falconry and raptor rehabilitation endeavors. His passing represents a significant loss, not only of artistic talent but also of a deep, inherent understanding of nature.
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