Grady Zeeman | “20 Women, 20 Stories” Women’s Portrait Campaign Experience

Grady

Contemporary Artist & Fashion Stylist

 

Where are you from, and where have you currently settled?  

I am from Swellendam, but have been living in Cape Town for the past 2 years. 

 

3 words that your friends would use to describe you?  

Stylish, interesting, bubbly 

 

What is your big, audacious dream? (that sometimes keeps you awake at night) If you are already living it, please share.  

My dream is to connect deeply with others through my art and also through my latest venture as an Image Consultant.

I trust that it authentically aligns with who I am at my core, and that it is my true purpose.  

 

Can you share how your journey in your current career began, and what drew you to it?  

I studied and worked as a Fashion Designer in Cape Town before marriage and moving  back to Swellendam. Always passionate about painting, I decided to dedicate more time  to developing this creative pursuit.

I earnestly developed my technical skills in oil painting and broadened my knowledge through courses in Art History, navigating the art world,  and curating exhibitions. In 2008, I participated in my first international group exhibition in  India, and in October 2020, I held my first solo exhibition in Rome, Italy.

I have showcased my work in various exhibitions across South Africa, USA, UK, Europe, and Asia. My  artwork has been published in numerous international books and magazines, and I am  currently represented by several galleries.

From 2011 to 2017, I was the owner of the  Kunstehuijs Art Gallery where I exhibited my own work alongside that of other South  African artists. In 2023, I relocated my studio to Cape Town to become more actively  involved in the local art scene. 

 

We all have different versions of what success means to us. What does success look and feel like to you?  

The fulfilment from living in alignment with my creative gifts while serving others —it’s about creating a legacy of beauty, emotion, and transformation in the lives I touch. 

 

What does your morning routine involve? Please share how you start your day. 

I normally meditate for about half an hour, have a cup of tea while working through emails, and have a shower before going to my studio. Once there, I would first do morning prayers and dedication at my altar before I start painting. 

 

What is the thing you enjoy doing the most (not business related and why?) 

I love traveling and immersing myself in different cultures. I am happiest wandering through art and history museums, where centuries of human creativity and experience come alive.

I’m always drawn to places of worship across traditions. I also love reading,  and particularly enjoy inspirational works and biographies that offer wisdom and perspective through others’ journeys. And then there’s my love for Opera and Ballet!

 

Is there a woman who stands out to you, who inspires you?

This can be someone in your close circle, or someone you don’t know personally, for example an author or podcast host, or other.  

Catherine, Princess of Wales (“my girl Kate”, as I call her) embodies qualities I deeply admire. While her elegance and impeccable style certainly is stunning, it’s the remarkable grace with which she handles life’s challenges that truly inspires me. Her smile,  beautiful and genuine, reflects an authentic spirit. 

 

What is a personal mantra or quote that motivates you?  

“Courage allows the successful woman to fail – and to learn powerful lessons from the  failure, so that in the end, she didn’t fail at all,” Maya Angelou 

 

What is one thing you wish more people knew about you?  

I find great joy in other people following their dreams and achieving success. 

 

What personality characteristic/s do you love about yourself?  

I am passionate about life, I live in constant gratitude, I am focused and driven to achieve my dreams, I love learning and growing. 

 

What is your greatest strength, and how has it helped you in your journey? 

My deep faith in the Divine has cultivated an inner resilience that has been my anchor during difficult times, giving me stability and hope when facing challenges. It has also provided me with direction and helped me find significance in my experiences. 

 

What does self-confidence mean to you, and how have you cultivated it? 

It means to trust my inner compass, knowing that I was created in excellence, with all the tools I need to navigate life’s complexities.

And then developing the skills through learning, failing, and embracing challenges. 

 

What are you most proud of in your business and/or personal life? 

I’m deeply proud of becoming the woman I was created to be, embracing my unique purpose and gifts while honouring my true nature. Perhaps what I value most is maintaining my softness through life’s difficulties. I

n a world that often encourages hardening in response to pain, I’ve consciously preserved my compassion, vulnerability,  and openness. 

 

If you could share a piece of business advice for someone starting out, what would it be?  

Overnight success takes 10 years. It is good to have a big dream, but do set attainable goals along the journey. This will keep you motivated and build confidence. 

 

What is a piece of advice you would give to your younger self?  

Look in the mirror and truly see yourself—not just your appearance, but the soul within.  Embrace that reflection with genuine love and compassion.

Remember that other people’s judgments and expectations are reflections of their own stories, not the truth about your worth or potential. 

 

If you have a website link, please share. www.gradyzart.co.za.  

 www.artofelegance.co.za

 

How did you feel being photographed? And what feelings emerged when you saw your portraits for the first time?  

I so loved the experience! When I saw my portraits, I was in awe of the powerful,  compassionate, elegant woman in the photos.

It was a deeply emotional experience when I realised my external image finally aligned with my inner sense of self.

I am so grateful for this experience and for the love and expertise of both Monica and Donna.

 

Thank you, Grady, for being part of the “20 Women, 20 Stories” Women’s Portrait campaign Experience! Donna and I had such a wonderful day with you.

Thank you for bringing your light and bubbly energy into the studio space.  It made the day perfect!  We are excited to see your images and story printed in the magazine!

I’m so glad you know have updated Personal Branding images too!