Art inspired by Africa and nature
Dominic Albinski, a sculptor from Kalk Bay, creates works that reflect his love for African wildlife, human experiences, and his travels around the world.
Born in Johannesburg in 1975, Mr Albinski began sculpting as a young boy under the guidance of his art teacher, Mercia Desmond.
His early works focused on African themes, which continue to influence his art today.
His sculptures centre on nature, wildlife, and human experiences, and he primarily works with clay and bronze.
His passion for sculpture grew when he created his first pieces under the guidance of his teacher.
“I remember making my first rhino sculpture with sculptor James Butler on his farm in England,” he said.
He also sold his first elephant sculpture at the Arnaud Gallery in France.
“What kept me going was the thrill of shaping the clay and making it my own,” he said.
Mr Albinski’s love for nature and his childhood in Africa remain major influences on his work.
“Africa is central to my work,” he said.
“But my sculptures carry messages that are not tied to a specific time or place. These messages can be understood anywhere - whether in Paris, New York, or anywhere in the world.”
He draws inspiration from artists like Alberto Giacometti, Pablo Picasso, and Auguste Rodin.
After completing his schooling at St John’s College in Johannesburg, he moved to Paris to study, and later attended the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw.
His first major exhibitions were held in France, and his works have since been displayed in cities like Johannesburg, Paris, and New York.
His sculpture, Madness, was exhibited at the 2023 Biennale in Florence, Italy.
Over the years, Mr Albinski has received several accolades for his work, including the Art Tour International Magazine Artist of the Decade Award for 2019/2020, and the Artist of the Future Award from Art Curator Magazine.
He is also the author of an autobiographical novel, Stories My Father Never Told Me.
Today, Mr Albinski is known for his animal sculptures, including works like Stretching Cat, Rat, and Peacock.
He also creates larger sculptures that explore emotional themes, such as The Rose and Madness, and playful pieces, like the Zulu Warrior and his colourful nudes
He believes that his animal sculptures are more than just representations—they hold deeper meanings.
“They carry my unique interpretation. Each one comes to life in its own way.”
Mr Albinski is firm in his belief that the true value of art lies in its ability to move people and spark thought.
“Art should make people feel something whether that feeling is moving, shocking, or thought-provoking,” he said. “And if it’s beautiful as well, then it has done its job.”
Looking ahead, he wants to keep growing as an artist and creating new works.
“I want to keep discovering new places and cultures that can inspire my art. I want my art to become timeless and meaningful,” said Mr Albinski.
Mr Albinski’s sculptures are currently on display at the Artvark Gallery in Kalk Bay.
