Painting a Life in Africa: The Story of Joan van Gogh

by Joan van Gogh, Rockhopper Books R275 in bookstores

Yes, Joan is a distant relative of Vincent van Gogh, but besides her very famous surname, you might be familiar with her botanical illustrations – her work has graced the pages of the SAPPI Tree Spotting series and books by herbalist Margaret Roberts.

Van Gogh’s memoir tells of an unconventional life. She was married to Adrian Boshier, an Englishman who explored southern Africa on foot to learn more about the people and the landscapes and who eventually trained to become a sangoma. (Boshier is the subject of the book Lightning Bird by Lyall Watson.) Together, they researched rock art paintings, excavated fossil sites and even spent time in the Tuli Block when Boshier worked there as a game ranger.

After their divorce, Van Gogh rediscovers herself and the healing power of art and nature. Her memoir will engage you with humour and vivid descriptions, even when she writes about adversity. As a seasoned traveller, she gives you a look at the landscapes of South Africa and places like Egypt, Greece and Russia through the eyes of an artist.

It’s a gripping read, especially for those interested in anthropology, archaeology and a life lived in the wild.