About me

My name is Alanie, and I am a freelance graphic designer, visual artist, and illustrator. I also own a preschool in Centurion. My passion for creativity led me to pursue both careers, and I find joy in bringing imagination to life through my art and design work while also providing a nurturing environment for young children to learn and grow at my preschool. 

I studied and completed my BA Degree in Visual Communication at the Open Window School of Visual Communication in 2005. My subjects were Communication Design, Illustration, Layout and Web Design, Photography and Visual Culture (Art History).

I have been working actively in the graphic design industry since 2003 and have over 20 years of experience in the field. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients, ranging from small businesses to large corporations. My passion for design and commitment to delivering high-quality work have allowed me to build long-lasting relationships with many of my clients.

My freelance design company Graphic Design Genie offers a fresh perspective regarding corporate identity and visual communication. I currently exclusively specialise in creating logos and stationery designs. I have always loved art and creating beautiful things.  I used to doodle on everything and everywhere as a child. I think I spent more time doodling than learning for exams or doing my homework, who knows if I didn't I might have been a rocket scientist by now if I concentrated more on the learning back then. However, I don't regret my love for doodling as it has led me to pursue a career in the creative field where I can utilise my artistic skills to their fullest potential. 

After completing school and studies, I focused on my graphic design and work, limiting time for my art and illustration. During 2020, when we had lockdown in South Africa due to COVID, I started investing more time in my painting and drawing, and I am thankful for being able to pick up my brushes and pencils once again to allow me to express my love for art. Art and illustration can be a great way to cope with stress and anxiety, and many people have turned to these activities during the pandemic. Additionally, investing time in creative pursuits can also lead to personal growth and a sense of accomplishment.  

I enjoy using mixed media, especially painting with watercolours, acrylics, and gouache, and also drawing with pencils, pens, markers, and pastel. I also offer creating digital illustrations, which I create using ProCreate and Adobe Illustrator. I recently started using oils as a medium at the beginning of 2023 and fell in love with them.  

My all time favourite artist is Salvador Dali, and I am also very fond of Picasso and Van Gogh. Leonardo da Vinci is also a favourite, not only for his art but also for his inventions. Each of these artists had a distinct style and technique that set them apart from others, making their works instantly recognisable. Their ability to evoke emotion and tell a story through their art is what makes them timeless and beloved by so many. 

My artwork is often inspired by nature and the beauty of everyday life. I enjoy experimenting with different techniques and styles to create unique and vibrant pieces that evoke emotion and tell a story.  

Creating art has always been a way for me to express myself and connect with others, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue it as a career. I hope that my art can inspire and bring joy to those who see it.  

I want to start giving art lessons, which will hopefully become a reality within the next year. I believe that teaching art will not only help me share my passion with others but also allow me to learn from my students and their unique perspectives. I am excited to see where this journey takes me and the impact it will have on both myself and those around me.