She has written numerous prolific art historical books, most notably, in 1970, Art & Artists of South Africa was published - a pictorial dictionary which has become a professed Bible for academics in the art field such as Wits fine art Professor Karel Nel, who earlier this year co-wrote her much awaited latest addition, Alexis Preller. Professor Nel, regarded by Esmé as both her son and “Renaissance Man” of the 21st century, delivered high praise for his mentor in a heartfelt speech which was applauded with standing ovation and champagne toasts before the cutting of her sumptuous chocolate 80th birthday cake.
The woman of the occasion was immaculately turned out and emanating a sense of joy in sharing such a radiant Highveld afternoon in her honour with her closest family, friends and fellow luminaries. She was joined by celebrities such as South Africa's most famous scientist, Dr Phillip Tobias; exemplary South African photographer Richard Cutler; Pretoria Art Museum director Dirk Oegema; political analyst Anna Starke; curator Lorna Ferguson; and notable art historian Dr Dalene Marais.
