Richard Rennie

Biography

Richard Alexander Rennie (b.1932) is a Zimbabwe-born South African artist celebrated as a master watercolorist. Born on a farm in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), he began painting at age seven. He studied graphic design in Durban and initially worked as a commercial artist. In the 1960s he switched to full-time art and discovered a passion for watercolors, which suited his spontaneous style. Rennie's paintings are known for capturing the light and mood of African skies and landscapes with fluid technique. He founded South Africa's first artist retreats (in Nottingham Road, KZN) and became a sought-after instructor. Later moving to the Clarens area, he opened the Richard Rennie Gallery. His work is widespread in private and corporate collections (e.g. SAA, Anglo American). Rennie's legacy is as a beloved watercolourist and teacher, inspiring many contemporary South African artists.