The Cape landscape in South Africa is a place of extraordinary beauty, encompassing a diverse range of ecosystems, breathtaking mountains, and captivating scenery. This remarkable region is not only a testament to the power of nature but also bears witness to a fascinating history that has shaped the landscape we see today. From ancient geological formations to human settlements and conservation efforts, the Cape landscape and its mountains have an enthralling story to tell. Ancient Geological Origins: The history of the Cape landscape dates back millions of years to a time when the earth's tectonic plates were in motion. The mountains that grace the Cape today are primarily composed of ancient granite and sandstone formations, remnants of a time when volcanic activity and erosion sculpted the terrain. Table Mountain, an iconic landmark, is believed to be one of the oldest mountains on Earth, with its distinctive flat top formed by the erosion of a plateau over millions of years. Indigenous People and Early Settlements: Long before European explorers arrived, the Cape landscape was inhabited by indigenous peoples who had a deep connection to the land. The Khoi-San people, known as the First Peoples of South Africa, were nomadic hunter-gatherers who thrived in the Cape's diverse ecosystems. Their intricate knowledge of the landscape and sustainable practices shaped the environment and its delicate balance. Later, European settlers arrived in the Cape, bringing with them a new era of exploration and colonization. The Dutch established a refreshment station at the Cape of Good Hope in 1652, leading to the founding of Cape Town. The establishment of settlements and farms by the Dutch and subsequent European powers transformed the landscape through agriculture, deforestation, and urbanization. Cape Floral Kingdom: The Cape landscape is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, boasting one of the world's six floral kingdoms, the Cape Floral Kingdom. This unique ecosystem is home to an extraordinary array of plant and animal species found nowhere else on the planet. Fynbos, a vegetation type endemic to the region, dominates the mountainsides with its colorful and diverse floral displays.

This is just to give you guys an idea as to how my first portraits use to turn out back in 1988. There are many more embarrassing ones. I guess that we all started our journeys somewhere.