It was a signature moment for local artist Dennis Woest when the Helderberg’s beloved Springbok Willie le Roux signed his portrait at Old Bridge Tavern in Somerset West last Thursday morning (5 March).

The intimate gathering at the traditional English-style restaurant and bar, located on the corner of Main and Gordon roads, was arranged by owner Danie van der Berg. Both he and Woest were thrilled to welcome the region’s rugby golden boy for the signing, the first glimpse of his own portrait.

It forms part of Woest’s ambitious tribute to South Africa’s rugby heritage through large-scale oil paintings of rugby legends, including Rugby World Cup-winning captains Francois Pienaar, John Smit and Siya Kolisi (“Somerset West artist’s ode to local rugby greats,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 16 July 2025).

Each portrait is personally signed by its rugby star on both sides for authentication.

Woest began the collection following the 2023 Rugby World Cup and it has already achieved commercial success. Rand Merchant Bank purchased the Siya Kolisi portrait for its London office, while Van der Berg acquired both the Francois Pienaar piece – strategically released to mark the 30th anniversary of the Springboks’ historic 1995 World Cup triumph – and portraits of Rassie Erasmus, John Smit and Os du Randt.

Meticulously detailed

“They are all from the area, or live in the area and frequent the Old Bridge Tavern,” explained Woest, highlighting the local connection that makes these artistic tributes particularly meaningful.

Each oil painting requires meticulous attention to detail, with Woest spending an average of one to two weeks per portrait. Next on his easel will be local rugby hero Steven Kitshoff, the next addition to his growing collection

The response from Old Bridge Tavern patrons seeing these rugby legends immortalised on the walls has been “quite phenomenal,” shared Woest.

Van der Berg recalled meeting the artist by chance and being struck by his talent. After purchasing an initial piece he commissioned more works to expand the restaurant’s collection. Explaining the inspiration, Van der Berg noted the restaurant and pub celebrated sport, particularly rugby. “We’ve welcomed many rugby legends through our doors and, given my close friendship with Willie’s father, this portrait was an obvious addition to our collection.”

Le Roux said he thoroughly enjoyed being back on home soil for the signing event and was captivated by the beautiful portrait. His proud parents have expressed interest in commissioning their own artwork from the artist.

For Woest this project represents more than just commercial success; it’s deeply personal. “I love rugby, having played myself. Rugby has been the greatest nation-building event ever.

“Having won the Rugby World Cup not once but four times, it continues to bring our nation together consistently.”

Portraiture will continue

This passion drives Woest’s ambitious plans to expand his collection significantly. He aims to paint all players and coaches from South Africa’s four Rugby World Cup-winning teams, a total of 53 portraits he hopes to complete before the 2027 tournament.

“I want to do all the players and coaches of our winning Springboks from the last four RWCs.”

Woest, optimistically, plans to include the “Winning Class of 2027” and women’s rugby players in his tribute.

Achieving this monumental goal, however, requires financial backing. Woest acknowledges needing a sponsor or investor to dedicate himself full-time to “recording our history in a positive manner”.

While rugby dominates his current focus his artistic passion extends beyond sport. “Besides rugby I also paint musicians, another of my passions.”

The artist also continues taking commissions for custom portraits.