Steffi’s zebras come to Henley

SIMON Hearnden is back at Henley’s Old Fire Station Gallery this week — until Tuesday, December 15 — with an exhibition of a refreshing collection of eclectic artworks, prints and even glass art from Berlin.

Amongst the variety of works on show from the German capital is an exceptional canvas by talented painter and environmentalist Stefanie Gendera, which she recently painted for a successful fundraiser at Berlin Zoo.

The work, depicting four zebras was purchased by a contact of Simon’s from that auction.

Four of Steffi’s stunning animal paintings were sold at the event, with much of the sale proceeds being passed on to the zoo for their conservation projects. The other artworks sold now adorn the walls of the restaurant there.

Whilst working as a development adviser in south-east Asia in 2005, Steffi decided to fuel her inspiration and motivation to paint by producing art that helps support sustainable development.



Her eventual aim is to help promote other talented artists and their work through a charity she is setting up, while supporting projects in the fields of conservation and sustainability. Simon’s concept of Berlin Walls was initially an attempt to bring little-known Berlin artist, Walter Lindner, to public notice.

The artist, who died in 2007, had worked tirelessly to perfect his monotype technique over 40 years.

Of those that are starting to know his work, some now regard him as a master of the monotype — Lindner used a monoprint as the basis or background to create unique, hand-finished, highly decorative original artworks which remain affordable presently.

Deck Your Walls is open daily from 9.30am to 6pm at the Old Fire Station Gallery in Upper Market Place.