Born in Vereeniging in 1968 and matriculated in 1986. From 1987 to 1989 she studied B (Arch) and from 1990 to 1993 she studied and completed her BA (FA) degree at the University of Pretoria.

Retha Buitendach's artworks deals with nature in both its macrocosmic and microcosmic detail. The hidden interconnectedness of all living things is an important underlying theme, as is the chance connections between seemingly unrelated things or even words. Unusual and microscopic life-forms as well as those seen everyday are sometimes portrayed in unusual contexts, thereby inducing the onlooker to discover them anew. The human figure is seldom directly visible in her artworks, although mans presence is often implied. Man is shown to be unique in his ability to experience nature as a supremely beautiful artwork and to be unique in his ability to destroy it all. Her work is both naturalistic and surrealistic, combining the recognisable with what the imagination can add to it.

Exhibitions

• Volkskas Atelier - 1998 & 1999
• SASOL New Signatures - 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997.
• Kempton Park Tembisa Awards - 1992 &1994
• PPC Young Sculptors Competition
• 1992 Third Prize
• 1993 Second Prize
• 1994 & 1998
• Arts Alive Exhibition - 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998.
• Pretoria Artists Group Exhibition - UNISA 1995
• Verwoerdburg Artist of the Year - VWB Gallery 1995: 1st Prize; Sculpture
• Group Exhibition - Tina Skukan Gallery 2000
• Solo Exhibition - Tina Skukan Gallery 2001

Other Group Projects

• ARTWALL, Paintings on walls for Metrorail: 2000
• ARTWALL, Paintings on walls for Centurion City Council: 2001

Collections

• SASOL Corporate Collection
• ABSA
• Old Mutual
• Numerous private collections in South Africa, UK, USA and Belgium.