Jean grew up on Mazunga farm near Gravelotte in the Limpopo Province, South-Africa. On Similar terrain and in close proximity to the Kruger National Park, Jean was exposed to wildlife at a very early age. His knowledge and love of the Lowveld and it’s animals stem from these early childhood days.

Jean’s father Frans Meintjes introduced him to the medium of Steel, at an early age. After matriculating, he completed a course in the drafting of steel construction. Jean had found his passion.  Resisting the lure of the city and a promising Sport Career, at the age of 21, he returned to the bushveld and began creating works of art.

Under relatively primitive conditions he welds, hammers grinds and bends all types of metals to create limmering sculpture. Through the controlled use of heat, he brings out a rainbow of colours that add dimension and life to his works. The differing types of metal are forged to match the textures and

colours unique to both the metals and the animals being sculpted.

These unique animal sculptures are evidence of Jean’s natural creative abilities, his intricate knowledge of wildlife and his ability to transform steel into work of art.

Jean works primarily on a commission basis i.e according to orders placed.  As an artist he is very flexible,and prepared to rise to any challenge (sculpts according to order and not limited by any size or complexity).