The House of Aloes, or better known as Aloe Alcare in Albertinia have just erected a statue of the indigenous Cape Aloe or Aloe ferox. The statue is a tourist attraction and landmark in honour of the plant itself, and in honour of the founders of the aloe industry in South Africa.
During the latter half of 2008 the idea and concept of such a statue was presented to their Board of Directors by Mr. Basson Piek, Chief Executive Officer of The House of Aloes and accepted in principle. Dirk van Wyk, a renowned sculptor from George, was asked to quote on the project and it was eventually accepted in February 2009.
This was probably the easiest part of the project and as it progressed, Dirk and Basson both realized that this is a huge task to create something realistic and as unique as the plant itself.
Throughout the project there were many obstacles that had to be overcome and none bigger than the sudden and untimely death of Dirk during March 2010. As a result of Dirk's circle of friends, loyal popularity, and the project profile that was already in place, a friend and colleague of Dirk, Francois de Wet, agreed to complete the project in honour of Dirk. Francois was also instrumental in the creation of the statue himself.
On Tuesday, August 24th, each unique piece of handmade artwork was finalised and erected in front of the head office and factory of The House of Aloes and Organic Aloe. Organic Aloe is the sister company of The House of Aloes and also made a financial contribution to the project.
The 9 meter high statue, which weighs approximately 2.500 kg, with each leaf and flower individually made and unique, just like the real aloe, took an estimated 8800 man-hours to complete. The final creation would not have been possible without the help of Langeberg Construction and Albertinia Furniture Removals.
Mr. Piek claims that this statue will be a great tourist attraction in Albertinia and will make a contribution not only to the region, but also to the Western Cape Province and South Africa. Albertinia is fondly known as "aloe Country" and this landmark will therefore also emphasize this title and make a contribution to the upliftment of the local community.
