Art Studies

Leda’s art studies took a new direction after she met Cecily Sash in 1967. Before this, she had already begun studying fine art in the early 1960’s, focusing particularly on painting and drawing under Pamela Smuts.

Sash (1925–2019) was a South African artist and educator. She studied at the Royal College of Art in London and later at the University of the Witwatersrand, where she also lectured in Fine Art.

Alongside her painting, Sash also worked in ceramics, including a commission for Jan Smuts International Airport.

While studying History of Art at the University of the Witwatersrand from 1968 to 1970, Leda was strongly influenced by Cecily. She also worked for Sash on one of the ceramic projects for Jan Smuts International Airport. During this period, Leda and Cecily bought a house together in Melville, Johannesburg, which became central to their lives.