SAMANTHA LEE OSNER
Fine Art Photographer
As the daughter to a fine art photographer, I grew up surrounded by; cameras, lenses, studios and darkrooms, so it seems as if my fate was inevitable. I was interested in art at an early age, but it is only in my later teens that I started to acquire a taste for photography, and later embraced the creative with open arms. To me, photography is all about capturing the beauty of a moment and making it last forever, a single instant in time that can never be repeated...
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Most Popular Prints
Print Collections
'The Truth of the Human Heart'
An Incredible montage artwork by Samantha Lee Osner, inspired by a Nelson Mandela portrait entitled "Salt of the Earth" by her father and mentor, Martin Osner, the concept behind this print had taken the artist about two years to develop.
Using subtle changes in tone on each of the blocks resembles the diversity and unity of the South African people. A portrait that reminds us of Mandela's vision where all people would be unified as a nation regardless of their skin colour or heritage. Where love, pride, and tolerance would prevail over hatred and segregation. Samantha took her time as she wanted to make sure that this tribute to Madiba would be one of significance.
"I felt like I wanted to create an artwork that represents our South African nation as unified within a rich cultural heritage and diversity. A piece of art that would reflect on Mr Mandela's dream to unify the diverse heritage of a nation that would go on to inspire and enlighten the world about the truth of the human spirit."
A father-daughter collaborative
Watch this unique story of a father-daughter bond forged in art photography. Two generations have developed contrasting artistic approaches but a unified vision in creating exhibition art. Together they showcase their work side by side at the Osner Gallery situated in Hout Bay, Cape Town.
Just a short drive from the centre of Cape Town central, the gallery is located on the slopes of the twelfth apostle overlooking the mountains and the bay itself. This is a serene place where time stands still for just a little while allowing art can be enjoyed.
This creative space has been designed as a destination gallery, away from the hustle and bustle. Viewing is by appointment as Martin and Samantha insist on personally meeting visitors.
Get in touch
+27 (0) 834721717 | gallery@martinosner.com
ABOUT THE ARTIST
I have been so fortunate to have not only found my passion in life but to have done so under the guidance and mentorship of my father, fine art photographer Martin Osner. Initially, after studying under him at his photography school, I was plunged into the depts of commercial photography almost instantly. I knew that I had to find my way, and the challenges that came with this genre of photography, as uncomfortable as it was, helped me to learn a lot about lighting and problem-solving.
After several years, I started to dabble into my dad's world of art photography and very soon the bug bit, and it bit hard. It took a while to convince the old man to let me exhibit, but finally in 2016, with my completed "Daydreams" collection of pinhole photography, he agreed. Lights camera action and my career as an art photographer unfolded before me. Shortly after this, my father encouraged me to cease taking in commercial work and invited me to join him in running the gallery and showcasing more of my work. 2018 was a big year for me as together we opened a private gallery in Hout Bay to showcase our print collections.
For me, two of the most critical elements that I find appealing in photography is lighting and how it can alter the mood of a photograph and capturing the beauty of a moment frozen in time - never to be repeated. My photographic collections include landscape, fine art and mixed media prints in limited as well as open editions. I am passionate about capturing the beauty of the scene and attempt to reflect minimalism, feminity and elegance in my style.
Along with my father, I have experienced the deserts of Namibia, been taken to old rusty scrap yards in the middle of nowhere and introduced to the splendour of the landscapes around Southern Africa. At a young age, I experienced the freedom of the outdoors and have at the same time I have been exposed to many different styles of photography. This experience has allowed me to broaden my vision and given me the chance to experiment and enjoy being behind the lens or in the studio, no matter what the subject. Instinctively I know that I have found my creative path and I am very blessed to be able to work alongside my old man.
EXHIBITIONS
Art Photography Gallery Cape Town - May 2018 (Daydreams)
Osner Private Collection Hout Bay - July 2019 (Eternity)
Osner Private Collection Hout Bay - April 2019 (Nèvè)
Osner Private Collection Hout Bay - November 2019 (Silver Waters & Serenity)
Art Photography Gallery Cape Town - November 2020 (Pasture of Splendor)
Osner Private Collection Hout Bay - March 2021 (Masquerade, Enchanted & Concrete Facade)
Osner Private Collection Hout Bay - October 2021 (Memoir & Beau Nexus)
Osner Private Collection Hout Bay - April 2022 (La vie est Belle)