Artist Jan Hendrik Viljoen popularly known as Portchie speaks about his upcoming art exhibition for his 60th birthday during an interview at his home on 11 October 2023 in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

Stellenbosch-based artist Portchie died on Friday morning at the age of 62.

The artist, real name Jan Hendrik Viljoen, was known for his colourful, playful paintings, which enjoyed wide popularity and were even exhibited at Trafalgar Square in London.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved brother, mentor, and friend,” said a statement on the artist’s Instagram page.

“He touched countless lives through his faith, his art, his kindness, his wisdom, and his unwavering passion for life. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him and in the beauty he brought to the world,” the statement continued.

“We will miss him dearly, but his spirit, inspiration, and joy will remain with us forever.”

He reportedly died in hospital after suffering an illness, according to Netwerk24.

Portchie was born in the Free State on 23 November 1963. The artist, whose work also includes sculptures, started painting as a hobby in 1991. He began his full-time art career after selling 100 paintings in one night at an art exhibition in 1994.

Portchie had his own gallery in Stellenbosch, where he sold some of his works.