Celebrity chefs.
Celebrity chefs, don’t you just love ‘em?
The poor dears, as if they haven’t gotten enough of our attention through their TV shows, cooking utensils and cookery books, they are now screaming for more by appearing in celebrity art.
Leading the way in South Africa is Cape Town based artist and foodie, Alex Hamilton.
Working from his airy, loft style studio in a converted factory premises in Woodstock, Alex has produced a range of chef icons in his unique woodblock graphic style, with acid colour combos reminiscent of Andy Warhol.
Already internationally renowned for his icon series, he has exhibited abroad and in Johannesburg. His ranges include the entire James Bond series of heros and villans, Tin Tin, 1930’s actresses and pop stars. His recent exhibition portrayed famous people with unusual haircuts, and the Lady Di one in an afro was a sellout.
People love visiting his studio in Woodstock. It’s an attractive place with views to die for, and full of the most inspirational collectional of knick knacks from antique shops and markets. His monthly margarita parties are legendary, (his wife, Zelda, mixes a mean one).
Rumour has it that Alex is talking to chefs locally, and is considering bringing out a South African range of chef icons. Who would he do? The dashing Brad Ball? or the debonaire Rudi Liebenberg? How about a smiling Bertus Basson? or our own 12th best in the world, Luke Dale-Roberts?
I am sure they would go well as the South African restaurant scene, despite the recession, is firmly on the global radar, and we are lucky to have locals who know and appreciate a good thing when they see it. Alex tells me that the chef icons are flying out the door. “People bring them home and put them up in their kitchens. I think they get inspiration from them”.
Who wouldn’t? If I were in danger of turning my risotto to mush and saw Gordon Ramsay or Marco Pierre-White scowling down at me I’d hop to it pretty quick.
alex@alexhamilton.co.za www.alexhamilton.co.za
Unit B203, 2nd floor, Back Building, Woodstock Industrial Centre, 68 Albert Road, Woodstock 7925.
Cell: 072 376 7984. Tel: 021 447 2396
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