About John Howes

I was born and raised in Zimbabwe, where my early years were steeped in the rich landscapes and wildlife of Southern Africa—a passion that has remained a constant throughout my life. After completing my education at Plumtree Boys High in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), I relocated to South Africa in 2001. Despite exploring various professional paths, I find myself continually drawn back to the region’s bush and its magnificent wildlife, which inspire much of my creative work.

Although art was my strongest subject in school, my career initially took a different trajectory, leading me to become a Senior Mechanical Designer with over 30 years of experience in industries like mining and manufacturing. In the mid-1990s, I rediscovered my love for art and began painting with oils, though my demanding career allowed only limited time to pursue this passion. With each project, I’ve noticed steady improvement in my techniques, and recently, I’ve transitioned to acrylics, embracing the versatility and freedom this medium offers. My latest works reflect this growth, capturing the essence of Southern Africa’s wildlife with increasing confidence.
Recently, I have been experimenting with plant studies, landscapes and seascapes.