Wild Art - A Brush with Nature

Joe Marais Art

with each Brushstroke,i strive to capture not only what the eye can see, but what the heart can feel image
  JOE MARAIS – My Journey

For over three decades, Joe Marais, a South African artist, has devoted his life to capturing the soul of the natural world — from the vast, untamed wilderness of Africa to the romantic streets and skylines of Paris. His paintings transcend simple representation; they are intimate reflections of a life spent observing, feeling, and honouring the quiet poetry of creation.

 The rhythm of nature, the behaviour of animals, and the golden light of the African bush became his lifelong inspiration. Over time, his art evolved into a profound celebration of life — each brushstroke revealing not only his technical mastery, but also his empathy and respect for the natural world.

Joe’s wildlife paintings are admired for their realism, texture, and emotion. Whether it’s the piercing gaze of a lion, the power of a charging elephant, or the elegance of a wild dog in motion, his works invite the viewer to pause — to feel the stillness, the tension, and the living spirit within every animal. 

Joe's first breakthrough came when he was invited to the prestigious Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibition in New York. At the time, it was regarded as the biggest art exhibition in the world!  He later also showcased his work in Central Park, New York, Washington Square, Reno (Nevada), Kingston (Canada), London, Cape Town, Mauritius, Paris (2024), and Abu Dhabi (2025), where his wildlife paintings received significant recognition.

In addition to his wildlife art, Joe’s creative curiosity has led him to explore landscapes, seascapes, and street scenes from around the world. Always with his beloved wife, Ilse, by his side, their love for travel — especially their fascination with Paris — has inspired Joe to do a stunning series of Plein Air paintings, capturing the city’s timeless architecture and mood. From the glow of a lamplight on rain-soaked pavements to the elegance of the Eiffel Tower at sunset, his Parisian scenes reveal another dimension of his artistry: a masterful understanding of atmosphere, light, and emotion.

Recently, Joe was recognized by one of the world’s largest art platforms, placing him in their top 5% of over 12,000 selected artists. His paintings have found homes in private collections across the Globe — each piece carrying with it a part of his vision and his deep appreciation for the beauty of life.

When asked what drives him, Joe often says,
“I paint what I love, and I love what I paint. My goal has never been just to create a picture — but to share a feeling, a memory, or a moment that speaks without words.”
In his studio — surrounded by canvases, sketches, and the scent of paint — Joe continues to explore new subjects, refine his craft, and pursue the timeless quest of every true artist: to capture not just what the eye can see, but what the heart can feel.
Email: art@joemarais.co.za
Email: art@joemarais.co.za Cell: +27 76 4944 356
Website:                 https://www.artbyjoemarais.co.za/                  
Art Exhibitions - Since 1995 
1995 - Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhition
1996 - Central Park, New York;
1997 - Kingston, Canada;
1998 - Kirstenbosh, Cape Town;
1999 - Trade Centre, Cape Town;
2000 - Zoo Lake, Johannesburg;
2001 - Wembley, London;
2004 - Reno, Navada, USA;
2010 - Mauritius;
2016 - Tuscany, Italy;
2016/17 - Blouberg, Cape Town;
2024 - Paris, France
2025 - Abu Dhabi, UAE



My Biggest Art Sale Ever
“Each painting is one of a kind — once sold, it’s gone forever.”
WhatsApp me on 0764944356
All these Paintings can be viewed in my Gallery
at 100 Krewelkring, Meerensee, Richards Bay
                       THE ART OF PRINTING
"Bring the beauty of the African wilderness into your home with our collection of limited edition very large canvas prints. Measurements: 825 x 1025mm. Each print is a high-quality reproduction of an original painting by Joe Marais, a wildlife artist from Zululand, South Africa. Our prints are printed on premium canvas and professionally block-mounted, making them ready to hang as soon as they arrive at your doorstep.
We pride ourselves on providing affordable, high-quality prints that are perfect for any budget.
Order now and add a touch of the wild to your home and office decor!"



ABOUT image
My Studio where I do most of my Paintings! I also have a Coffee Shop, Cafe d'Art, adjacent to my Studio! People come and go throughout the day, having coffee with friends, or some come and watch me painting!
  • 100 Krewelkring, Meerensee, Richards Bay, South Africa