Rose-Innes, Alexander (1915 – 1996)

Alexander Rose-Innes developed an aptitude for drawing at an early age. The Rose Innes family moved
to Port Elizabeth in 1927. This was where he began his art studies at the Art School of the Port Elizabeth
Technical College, under Francis Pickford and Jack Heath. After completing his studies, he enrolled as an
apprentice sign-writer, continuing to pursue his art in his free time.

Following World War II, he decided to dedicate himself for the next 5 years to his art, where he made
the decision to move to Cape Town in 1956 where the New Group had an important influence on the
local art scene. He also befriended the curator of the Michaelis Collection, Matthys Bokhurst, who
encouraged him to continue painting and also exhibit his work.

Rose-Innes had his first solo exhibition in 1958, having previously only been part of group exhibitions.
He went on to have several solo exhibitions in South Africa and Belgium. His work was also included in
various national and international exhibitions. In 1986, he was honored by the University of Pretoria
with a retrospective exhibition of his work and a medal for his contribution to the arts in South Africa.

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