Liz Westby-Nunn, an innovative and creative entrepreneur, established The Portfolio Collection in 1982 – the first organisation in South Africa which encouraged the concept of independent travel throughout the region, and most importantly benchmarked accommodation establishments throughout Southern Africa. After 30 years, Liz sold The Portfolio Collection in 2012.

Her interest in antiques and fine art was kindled in 1978 when she worked part-time for Vyvyan Myerson, one of South Africa’s top art and antique appraisers and valuers (www.thevaluer.co.za) . Under his tutelage Liz developed a passion for fine antiques. She built up a strong personal collection of antiques and art which she used to refurbish the magnificent Klippe Rivier Country House, a historic Cape Dutch homestead, circa 1820, situated outside Swellendam.  Klippe Rivier was sold in 2012 and has reverted once again to being a private residence, which has fortuitously resulted in many of Liz’s fine artworks and collectibles now being offered for sale by Word of Mouth, Liz’s inspiring new website.

Klippe Rivier, originally the family home of two former presidents of the Orange Free State Republic, MT Steyn and FW Reitz, is one of South Africa’s most important historic Cape Dutch country houses. Liz spent two years painstakingly restoring it to its original state. The original stables and waenhuis were converted into six guest suites and opened to the public and entertained guests from all over the world from 1993 to 2012, enjoying its status as one of the few remaining authentic Cape Country Houses. It was also South Africa’s first Five-Star Country House. Liz’s tourism and hospitality career began at Londolozi Game Reserve in 1977, before launching Portfolio in 1982, and in 1997, Liz was appointed by Minister Pallo Jordan as Chairperson of the South African Tourism Board for three years.

Liz is now returning to her roots to pursue her passion in fine arts and antiques with Word of Mouth, connecting quality buyers with quality collectibles. She offers private sellers the opportunity of discerningly showcasing their artwork and collectibles on the website, which will be regularly updated as more pieces are added, to prospective buyers.