A tour of NIEU-BETHESDA, South Africa - Beautiful art and nature!

Hi everyone! In this episode, I explore the village of Nieu-Bethesda (alternative spelling: Nieu Bethesda), approximately 50km from Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It is situated in the Groot Karoo, in the Gatrivier (Hole River) valley and surrounded by the Sneeuberge (Snow Mountains).

Nieu-Bethesda's name is of biblical origin, meaning the "Place of Flowing Water". It was founded in 1875 as a church town and it became quite prosperous from an agricultural perspective, due to its location close to a reliable water supply. In the 20th century, the town became known as the place where Helen Martins established the Owl House and practiced her outsider art. It is also a place popular with artists and writers in general, as many visit or move here to find inspiration. Others visit or move here to heal or improve their mental health.

The vlog starts with me going for a casual stroll at around 8am in the village. I share my initial thoughts and first impressions along the way. I notice the unpaved roads, farm-like atmosphere and large amount of art galleries in the village. I visit the General Dealer and the Post Office, before strolling towards the Dutch Reformed church. I also talk more about the history of the village.

After visiting the church and exploring an old car that got transformed into a piece of art, I meet a man called Albert in the street. He mentions that I am welcome to see his garden and that Neville will show me around. Neville indeed shows me around the Oude Pastorie property, telling me about his veld medicine and his general duties around the property. He is quite the character - thank you Neville for a wonderful tour!

After saying goodbye to Neville, I meet a local artist called Katrina, who shows me how she creates a small owl statues from cement using a simple butter knife. I also purchase a small owl statue from her. I then visit my accommodation and tour the building and garden, highlighting the peaceful setting and affordable cost.

Last but not least, the vlog ends with me visiting the famous Owl House Museum and taking in the wonderful outsider art of Helen Martins.

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Happy exploring!

Willie