SOLE MAGIC SOUL MATES!

PUBLISHED BY PAARL ROUTE NEWS MARCH 1998

Handcrafted, lovingly created, absolutely devine! That is it, in a nutshell and why, once you’re a Redemption fan, you are hooked forever! And like all the best stories, this one also begins with these words…. Once upon a time, young Arrie Slabber (aged 11) met Oom Japie Theron (aged 74) in his home town of Paarl. Oom Japie told Arrie that with patience and determination, everything is possible. He taught Arrie the art of creating magic by handcrafting leather, slowly and thoroughly. Oom Japie shared the secrets of his forefathers, the Voortrekkers of old, with his friend and how “velskoene” and plaited whips were made. Throughout his schooldays, Arrie made everything possible out of leather – wallets, book-covers and, of course, shoes. Arrie met and married his school sweetheart, Nicolette, in Paarl and together they own and run Redemption Shoes in Wellington. After matriculating from Paarl Gimnasium, Arnold spent five years with the Police before deciding that his hobby would now become his life. Arnold worked as the assistant production manager at Buccaneer Shoes in Wellington and in 1982 he decided to buy Redemption Fine Handcrafted Leather from its previous owner, Andre Olivier. Now he knew that his lifelong hobby was destined to become his full time occupation.

Redemption became a reality. Shoes, sandals, belts, bags, wallets, key-rings, hats and whips are manufactured. Only the finest leather is used for this fine craft. Every piece is made with love, care and for long-life. “The Francesco family in Florence taught me that every piece created, should be a masterpiece” says Arnold, who designs each style and personally supervises each item made. A visit to Redemption on the family estate, Altebly, Bainskloof Pass, Wellington, will introduce you to SOLE MAGIC. You will be met by the family, who, together with their very efficient, knowledgeable, friendly staff, will attend to your needs and offer advice.

Arnold and Nicolette visit Europe and the East regularly to source material, the latest ideas, techniques and leather fashions. So, even if you are just curious, take a Walk on the Wellington side and see for yourself.

CURRENT UPDATE

Arnold and Nicolette have 2 children. Amaria is married and lives in England with her British husband and son.

Nic studied at the Faculty of Art, Design and Technology at the Footwear College in Leicester, England where he graduated as top student 2 years in a row. Nic is a qualified designer and works with the family. He is married and has 2 daughters.