Born & raised in Patensie, Tinus has captivated audiences with his detailed paintings that celebrate African landscape & cultural heritage. Tinus’ journey into the world of art is as his works themselves. Starting his schooling journey at Quagga Primary, following by Patensie & Hankey Primary Schools. Later attended Chatty Secondary School in Gqeberha, where he completed his grade 11. Even in his early years, his artistic potential shone through. He won his first art competition while still in primary school.

The following year, he won the literacy prize in the Oosterlig (now the Burger) essay competition, showcasing his creativity beyond just the visual arts. After grade 12, Tinus joined the military (SADF) in 1990, where he trained as medic & culinary chef. Following his military service, he served part time within the Humansdorp Commando before fully dedicating himself to the arts. In 2002, he co-founded the Kouga Arts Committee (later the Kouga Arts Council) giving local artists a platform to showcase & share their artworks.

Tinus’ first formal exhibition took place during the launch of the Kouga Cultural Centre, marking the start of his public journey as his artistic approach took on new dimension. When he connected with well-known artist, Stanley Grootboom. Under Grootboom’s mentorship, Tinus honed skills in contrast, detail & texture – factors that now make his pieces truly stand out. His participation in the esteemed Brett Kebble Art Awards further underscored his commitment to advancing his craft. His dedication paid off in 2008, when he received the Kouga Mayoral Award for Arts & Culture & got nominated again in 2009, in the very same category.