Andries Botha, born in 1952 in Durban, South Africa, is an artist and political activist known for his thought-provoking sculptures and installations that address social and environmental themes. Throughout his career, Botha has engaged with issues related to the co-existence of humans and other life forms, creativity, citizenship, and lifelong learning.
One of Botha's notable projects involved the creation of large-scale elephant sculptures made from materials such as wire frames filled with stones, and driftwood, intended to generate awareness of the Earth's climate crisis. These sculptures, including those for the "You Can Buy My Heart and My Soul" installation, highlight Botha's ability to combine traditional elements with raw materials to produce lifelike renditions of elephants. This work not only showcases his skill as a sculptor but also serves to draw attention to important issues such as perseverance, environmental conservation, and the impacts of human activity on wildlife.
Botha's dedication to using art as a means of commenting on the social and political challenges of his time has led him to found several NGOs, including the Create Africa South Trust and the Human Elephant Foundation, which further demonstrates his commitment to activism through art. His work has been exhibited in various international venues, underscoring his recognition as a significant figure in contemporary art and activism.