Errol Boyley

Biography

Errol Boyley was a South African painter celebrated for his naturalistic landscapes and still lifes. Born in Pietermaritzburg, he served in WWII and then taught himself painting. In 1946 Boyley moved to Knysna and became a full-time artist, later relocating to Ramsgate and Franschhoek where he opened galleries. He described himself as a “painter of natural things,” focusing on the Karoo, Cape Winelands, KwaZulu-Natal coast, interiors, and wildlife. Working in oil and watercolor, Boyley was noted for tranquil scenes with stylized, almost naive forms. His first solo exhibition was in 1956, and he remained active in exhibitions and local galleries through the late 20th century.