BETHLEHEM – From drawing cars with chalk on the garage floor at the age of three, to earning an A+++ and a merit award at the Eastern Free State Eisteddfod, Owen Pelser’s lifelong passion for art has developed into an outstanding talent.

Owen, a former learner of the Truida Kestell Primary School in Bethlehem, is currently in Gr. 10 at Michaelhouse, a prestigious all-boys boarding school in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Here he continues to pursue his love of art alongside his academic and sporting commitments.

His artistic journey began in early childhood, when his parents quickly learnt to keep a pen and paper close at hand so that he could draw wherever they went. Today, pen drawing remains his preferred medium, as it allows him to focus on intricate details and achieve the precision he enjoys.

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His dedication to art also opened the door to his high school education at Michaelhouse. After visiting the school in 2022, Owen knew it was where he wanted to study and set his sights on securing a scholarship. Determined to make his dream a reality, he applied for several scholarships, but was particularly interested in the school’s art scholarship. The selection process involved a motivational letter, a recommendation from his art teacher, a self-portrait, a still-life drawing completed at the school and an interview.

His efforts were rewarded when he received the Art Exhibition Scholarship for Gr. 8 in 2024.

Since joining Michaelhouse, Owen has distinguished himself in several areas. Academically, he has consistently maintained a place among the top ten learners in his grade this year and was awarded the silver president’s award, which involves community service, an activity he considers particularly meaningful. Sport has also become an important part of his school life. He plays for the U16A basketball team and has recently taken up sevens rugby, a sport he has quickly come to enjoy.

Recently, he completed the school’s demanding 13-day C Block Journey, which involves hiking, paddling, cycling and periods of solitude, overcoming the physical and mental challenges of the expedition.

His parents are immensely proud of his achievements and believe he has embraced the opportunities offered by the school. He hopes to continue developing his artistic abilities, achieving his goals and eventually giving back to the school that has played such an important role in his life.