This introduction to Reuben Louw’s  work gives a glimpse into the life of a true artist told in rich brush strokes and precise, pristine prose. Frank and real, it gives one an intimate view of a very private person’s journey to the present. Reuben uses hauntingly economic language, each word carefully selected to convey a deeper meaning. I enjoyed the way his paintings and words led me to explore many aspects of our human condition.

Holding hands The holding Hands depicts a tranquil feeling when looking at it. The artistic lines of the painting reminds me of the Artist himself, that makes him a very soulful and kind person. The colours and texture of the painting with the closing of hands has a calming effect on me.

"Pen and sword" This particular poem is one of many of my favorites in Scarlet Robe! I find that I experience “gratitude” of how our Lord’s word (pen) gages war (sword) with the enemy with determination to fight right to the end for the sake of His creation (final redemption). I enjoy reading Reuben’s heartfelt work in “Scarlet Robe”,  and in particular appreciate his authenticity.  His poems resonate with our souls so well, they reach deep to unleash vulnerability and touches soft to nurture… I have known Reuben and his precious family for the past 15 years and admire how he (and his sister Lara) upholds their great family values. Reuben is also an impeccable and eloquent businessman and a special mentor to me! This is one special book that I highly recommend to people from all walks of life.

Blessed

As I opened this lovely book, Scarlet Robe, from the first gripping poem, I was inevitably drawn into an intense journey with the Author. A journey of our human vulnerability and uncertainties. The sincere path of reaching for guidance from our Creator was intense and heartfelt. As we travelled into the the darkness, pain and brokenness, tears burnt my eyes, but I could not stop reading. The lovely and amazing descriptive art was part of unspoken words of hope and desperation. That uncertainty we all experience, of belonging........ Where do I belong in this broken world? The honesty that the author applied to this beautiful heart rendering poetry is exceptional. I felt humble and yet blessed for the privelage that I could share in this journey of innermost feelings of brokenness and pain and see the gradual healing as the author's great achievements and wonderful capabilities was realised. 'And he became at peace, and could say with well deserved pride'........ I AM MY FATHER'S MASTERPIECE!

Thaba Eco Hotel is honoured to have three Scarlet Robe Art pieces to add to the beauty and splendour of its venue and surroundings