Claire Kockott

Driftwood Studios was first developed as a family home by Claire and her late husband, renowned sculptor George Kockott. They then renovated two outbuildings and built an art studio before hosting other artists and guests from 2007.

Claire has been active in art and development in the area for the last 26 years, since arriving in South Africa from the UK to support rural water and sanitation projects. Artists in residence can draw on her network of local art contacts and community groups. Together an enriching and memorable residency experience can be designed to the benefit of both local people and artists in residence. Claire also works at funding proposal writing and project managing corporate commissions for artists.

As an art facilitator at Driftwood Studios, Claire is available to mentor and support those accepted on the programme to achieve their creative goals. This family residency is idyllically located adjacent to pristine coastal dune forest and a few minutes’ walk to Rainbow Valley beach for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and canoeing all year round. The sea life is truly incredible, from whales and dolphins to tiny starfish. Out of the water there are dramatic sand dunes, beautiful pebbles, shells and of course driftwood to inspire.

It is with these natural resources that Claire makes her own sculptural pieces.