JD (54) is a self-taught, Cape Town based artist known for his inventive, boundary-pushing sculptures and artwork that breathe new life into diverse mediums. From an early age, he absorbed a strong creative legacy passed down from his family—his mother was a floral and cake designer with a passion for decoupage, while his grandfather was an accomplished cartoonist and skilled craftsman. Influenced by these early inspirations, he has mastered a range of mediums over the years, including woodturning, metal and clay sculpture, ceramics, and even ephemeral materials like chocolate and ice.

Recently, he has turned his focus to upcycling damaged surfboards, transforming them into unique sculptures and painted artworks. By carving and reshaping the boards, he reimagines them as vibrant expressions of the ocean’s and nature’s natural power and beauty, each piece capturing a blend of reverence and reinvention. His work not only reflects an appreciation for craftsmanship but also his commitment to sustainability and the stories embedded within recycled materials. Through this evolving journey, JD has carved out a distinct place in the art world, celebrated for his originality, resourcefulness, and ability to make unexpected materials sing with new life.