J.C. Bölke

J. C. Bölke is a South African visual artist whose practice explores the intersections of gender, identity, and emotional expression through the medium of embroidery and mixed media. Originally from Pretoria, Bölke holds a B-Tech degree in Fine and Applied Arts (2015) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (2016). His creative journey has been shaped by his experiences teaching visual arts in South Africa, Kuwait, and China, as well as by his active participation in numerous group
exhibitions both locally and abroad.

Bölke’s artistic approach is characterised by his distinctive use of embroidery thread, a traditionally domestic and feminine medium, reimagined through a contemporary and deeply personal lens. Through this unexpected choice of material, he challenges preconceived notions of masculinity and femininity, weaving narratives that often engage with themes of sexuality and vulnerability. His creative process is meditative, using colour and texture to convey complex emotional landscapes in his portraiture.

Since returning to Cape Town to focus on his art fulltime, J. C. Bölke has exhibited extensively. His work has garnered critical recognition, including a Top 4 finalist placement with a ‘Highly Recommended’ Artist Certificate in the 2024 VULEKA Art Competition and a feature and interview in Germany's Juturna Male Art Magazine in 2025. Bölke continues to develop his practice while sharing his passion for the arts through teaching and workshops.

J.C. Bölke’s work is currently on display at The Artists Gallery in Cape Town.