Marco Olivier Collection

Marco's Life Story

Marco's Life History

  1. Born in Upington, South Africa

    Upington is a town in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, known for its hot desert climate and the Orange River, which runs through it.

  2. Grew up in Cullinan, Gauteng, South Africa and attended Cullinan Primary School

    Cullinan is a small town in the Gauteng province, famous for the discovery of the Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. Growing up here, Marco would have been part of a community with a rich history in mining.

  3. Went to boarding school at Pretoria Boys High. He majored in the subject of Art. Joined Waterkloof Airforce and qualified top of his class

    Pretoria Boys High School is a well-known institution in South Africa, offering rigorous academic programs. Marco majored in Art, indicating a strong inclination and talent in creative fields. Waterkloof Airforce Base is one of the primary air force bases in South Africa. Joining the air force would have provided Marco with technical training and discipline.

  4. Started casting iron foundry "Marco Olivier Interiors" creating balustrades and furniture

    Founding "Marco Olivier Interiors" marked the beginning of Marco’s entrepreneurial journey, focusing on creating decorative and functional iron works. Balustrades and furniture are significant components in interior design, showcasing his craftsmanship and artistic abilities.

  5. At age of 22 Marco married to Mia Pretorius

    This marks a personal milestone in Marco's life, beginning his family life with Mia Pretorius.

  6. First born daughter, Lisa

    The birth of Lisa brought joy and added responsibilities, marking an important phase in Marco’s personal life.

  7. Second born daughter, Emmah

    With the arrival of Emmah, Marco's family expanded further, continuing his journey as a father.

  8. Designer furniture exported to Harrods, London + Texas, USA

    Exporting designer furniture to prestigious locations like Harrods in London and various places in Texas, USA, highlights the international recognition and demand for Marco’s high-quality, artistic furniture designs.

  9. Sold Company to Pursue Professional Career as Pro-Golfer

    Marco sold his iron foundry business, "Marco Olivier Interiors," to focus on becoming a professional golfer.

  10. 2006 - Competed in BBF + NABBA Bodybuilding Competitions Nationwide

    Marco participated in bodybuilding competitions organized by the BBF (Bodybuilding Federation) and NABBA (National Amateur Body-Builders' Association) across the country. This is where Marco's passion for the human form ignited, indicating a strong interest in physical fitness and bodybuilding.

  11. Qualified as Pro Golfer in the UK & Bankruptcy - Sale Expired Due to Lack of Performance from Buyer

    Marco achieved professional golfer status in the United Kingdom, a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport using his engineering background to perfect his game. The sale of his company fell through due to the buyer's failure to perform, forcing Marco into bankruptcy.

  12. Moved to Mosselbay Golf Estate

    Marco relocated to the Mossel Bay Golf Estate, a notable residential and golf community, to immerse himself further in the golfing world.

  13. Started Golf Academy "Swing Lab," Coaching Professionals and Doing Non-Profit Coaching for Underprivileged Scholars

    Marco founded "Swing Lab," a golf academy where he coached professional golfers. He also provided non-profit coaching for underprivileged scholars, giving back to the community and supporting aspiring young golfers.

  14. Divorced, Ex-Wife and Kids Move Away

    Marco went through a divorce, after which his ex-wife and children relocated, marking a challenging personal period.

  15. Lost His Golf Academy, Bankruptcy Again

    Marco faced another financial setback, losing his golf academy and declaring bankruptcy once more.

  16. Relocated again to Cape Town. Lived in his run-down bakkie for 3 months, He worked as a seamster during the day at night, he used his employer's workspace to create. Made his first cast aluminum human head

    Marco moved back to Cape Town, a major city in South Africa known for its vibrant culture and artistic communities. During this period, Marco faced financial and personal challenges, living in his old pickup truck (bakkie) for three months. To make ends meet, Marco worked as a seamster, sewing and tailoring garments during the daytime. In the evenings, Marco utilized his employer's workspace to pursue his artistic endeavors. Marco created his first sculpture, a human head made from cast aluminum, marking a significant milestone in his artistic career.

  17. First own workshop in Salt River, Cape Town, SA. Experimented and found his own way as an artist. Developing skills and building own masters

    Marco established his own workshop in Salt River, an area in Cape Town, providing him a dedicated space to work on his art. During this time, Marco experimented with different techniques and styles, developing his unique approach to art. Marco continued to refine his skills and started creating his own master works, showcasing his growth as an artist.

  18. First employee working with him

    Marco's workshop grew to the point where he could hire his first employee, indicating the expansion of his artistic operations.

  19. Daughter Lisa joined as administrator

    Lisa, Marco's daughter, joined the workshop as an administrator, helping manage the business side of the operations.

  20. 2nd International Art Fair "Florence Biennale Art Fair". Achieved 1st place "Leonardo da Vinci" trophy for "Best Sculptor"

    Marco participated in the prestigious Florence Biennale Art Fair, an international event held in Florence, Italy. At the Florence Biennale Art Fair, Marco won the 1st place "Leonardo da Vinci" trophy, recognizing him as the best sculptor at the event, a significant achievement in his artistic career.

Marco's Mission

Marco's vision is to see his sculptures recognized as a vital part of contemporary art in the US. He envisions his work being displayed in prominent spaces and collections across the country. Through strategic collaborations and carefully curated exhibitions, Marco strives to increase the visibility and appreciation of his art, sharing its transformative power with a broader audience.

Marco's Vision

Marco's vision is to establish his sculptures as a cornerstone of contemporary art in the US. He aspires to see his work in prominent spaces and collections nationwide. Through strategic partnerships and curated exhibitions, Marco seeks to enhance the visibility and appreciation of his art, bringing its transformative experience to a wider audience.

Marco's Goals

Marco's goals focus on expanding his presence in key US art markets, increasing public installations, and collaborating with leading institutions. He plans to host exclusive exhibitions and events, deepening the understanding and appreciation of his distinctive artistic perspective.