Our Story

CasaDeGustav is a journey that began with a quiet fascination and grew into a lifelong passion. From a young age, Gustav Nel was captivated by the elegance of palm trees, spending countless hours sketching their graceful silhouettes against imagined tropical skies. In South Africa, where palm trees are rare, these drawings became symbols of distant paradises—places of untouched beauty that sparked his imagination. 

As Gustav's artistic journey unfolded, so did his connection with palm trees, though he was unaware of how deep this bond truly ran. Without realizing it, he wove palm trees into his creative work—first in his drawings, then in his logo, and eventually, in his photography. The palm tree became a recurring motif, representing tranquillity and escape. Unable to deny the call of the palm tree, Gustav found himself drawn to it time and again, only later realizing the profound significance it held for him.

Our Origin

The origins of CasaDeGustav are rooted in the wild beauty of Africa, a continent that has profoundly shaped Gustav's artistic vision. Growing up in South Africa, Gustav developed a deep appreciation for nature's raw and untamed beauty. His experiences in Africa extended far beyond the familiar—he has lived in the wild, where the rhythms of nature dictate life, and rafted down the Blue Nile and White Nile on filming projects. These adventures immersed him in Africa's vast, rugged landscapes, honing his ability to recognize and capture the essence of untouched nature whenever it presents itself. CasaDeGustav reflects his desire to preserve and share this wild beauty through his art, allowing others to experience the serenity and power of nature in its most authentic form.

Our Name

The name CasaDeGustav was inspired by a favourite saying: "Mi casa es su casa." This phrase, meaning "my house is your house," reflects the warmth and openness Gustav aims to convey through his work. CasaDeGustav is not just a brand; it's an invitation for others to step into his world, to share in the beauty he sees, and to feel at home in the serene landscapes and tranquil moments his art captures.

Our Inspiration

Inspiration comes to those who seek it. For Gustav, it's found in the grandeur of the world's most breathtaking locales. His travels have taken him from the vibrant streets of South Africa to the serene expanses of Canada. But the discovery of the Hawaiian Islands—Oahu, The Big Island, Maui, and Kauai—truly transformed his work. These islands' lush landscapes and tranquil vibes infused his art with a sense of peace and wonder, celebrating life's quiet moments.

Our Journey

Gustav's career is a tale of evolution and discovery, from owning a magazine company to becoming a photographer. His path has always been about capturing life's finest moments. The Hawaiian Islands played a pivotal role in this journey, enriching his collections with stunning landscapes and serene scenes. Today, CasaDeGustav is a testament to his commitment to quality and his passion for celebrating the world's beauty.

 

As he continues to explore, Gustav's lens will turn to the lush and vibrant beauty of Costa Rica, where new adventures and inspirations await. Following this, his collection will return to The Big Island of Hawaii, capturing its majestic landscapes and volcanic energy.

Mission & Vision

At CasaDeGustav, we believe in the transformative power of art. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting Gustav's dedication to quality and his passion for capturing the essence of each moment. Our photos are offered as limited editions, symbolizing the fleeting nature of these beautiful scenes. This approach serves as a reminder that these moments, like the untouched landscapes they depict, could vanish if we do not act as good stewards of the Earth. We aim to share this vision with the world, bringing tranquillity, inspiration, and a touch of the extraordinary into people's homes.

Our vision is to become a leading name in fine art photography, known for a distinctive style that resonates with those who appreciate the beauty of nature and the arts. CasaDeGustav aspires to inspire others to see the world through a lens of wonder and to foster a deeper connection with the environment and the creative spirit.