Carrol Boyes

Image via Twitter: @CarrolBoyes

Acclaimed South African artist Carrol Boyes dies at 65

Carrol Boyes, renowned South African artist, designer and businesswoman, passed away Wednesday night.

Carrol Boyes

Image via Twitter: @CarrolBoyes

A company spokesperson for Carrol Boyes SA, the brand, confirmed that the acclaimed artist and designer passed away on Wednesday night.

The cause of death has not yet been confirmed; however, a media statement will be released in due course.

As reported by Channel 24, Boyes passed away after a brief illness. Carrol Boyes SA spokesperson, Michele Stuurman, also told the outlet that “Carrol will be remembered for her love, her story and her quirky creativity.”

More to follow.

Who was Carrol Boyes?

Boyes founded the Cape Town-based brand – Carrol Boyes SA – in 1991. Over the years, she has “deftly crafted a coveted and high-end product range of upmarket home and lifestyle items.”

Boyes was a fine arts graduate with a major in sculpting from the University of Pretoria. Prior to that, she was an English teacher; but decided at the age of 35 to live her dream of being an artist.

At the time, Boyes began making crafts from her home in Cape Town. Two years later, she founded Carrol Boyes SA. According to the company website, Boyes’ products are,

“[…] associated with style and finesse and are available throughout South Africa, and in over 30 countries around the world. Her designs are inimitable and unique, succeeding in putting South Africa on the design map.”

Boyes’ aim was to “combine sculpture with functionality”. As a result, her home ware products and table-top accessories transform any home into a haven where art and creativity meets purpose.

In addition, Boyes also transformed her company into a multi-cultural organisation which supports gender empowerment:

“The company’s ethos is driven by a sincere commitment to the betterment and welfare of individuals in the community and workplace.”

Before her passing, Boyes returned to her teaching roots. She worked within the guidelines set by sector education and training authorities in South Africa; focusing on “skills development, training implementation and growth.”

Watch: An interview with Boyes, dated 2013

Also read – Meet the next Picasso: The 15-year-old artist with a philanthropic mindset