Artist’s passion leads to success

In 2010, when Mahlangu was in Grade Eight at Kenneth Masekela Secondary, he discovered his passion for crafting and sculpting.

“My grandfather taught me woodwork when I helped him create ceilings and doors for his business,” he says.

Soon after, he started creating his own pieces.

• Read: Artists come out to support sick child

“I would get to school an hour early to buy myself time to work on my art.”

He says it was this determination which attracted the attention of one of his teachers, Makhosazana Mthimkhulu, who bought him more supplies and introduced him to other artists.

“I entered my first competition in 2015 through the Springs Art Gallery,” he adds.

Mahlangu says that winning a division of the Thami Mnyele Fine Arts competition validated him as an artist.

This is also when he was introduced to fine arts.

He then established Inkanyezi Art Collaboration and Design, where he mentors aspiring artists and hopes to distribute their work some day.

• Also read: New hangout for artists

“There are many opportunities for artists out there,” he says.

“We just desperately need funding to get where we need to.”

Mahlangu says that getting his work to exhibitions is one of his main challenges.

“The logistics and cost usually prevent me from grabbing every opportunity that is presented to me.”

However, he adds that this will not stop him from pursuing his goal.

“Our talent is free, so we will work with what we have right now.”

Connect with us:

Do you have an interesting newsworthy story? Connect with Xoliswa Kali by contacting 011 812 4817 or send an email to xoliswak@caxton.co.za

For the latest breaking news in your community, follow us on Twitter @AfricanReport and like our Facebook page for daily news.

For news straight to your phone and daily weather updates, invite African Reporter on WhatsApp by sending a message with your name and surname to 079 408 9334.

To see what we get up to in the newsroom and in town, follow us on Instagram at african_report