Makhubo’s wish is for an art gallery in Kwatsaduza
Nicholas Makhubo will be donating his Hector Peterson portrait as part of the June 16 commemorations in Soweto.
Kwa-Thema – Multi-talented painter Nicholas Makhubo is pained by the lack of support and resources for local artists.
Makhubo, who brought his talent to life five years ago and has since sold some of his work on the international market, said he wishes to share his work with the residents of Kwatsaduza.
“My wish is for the local artists’ work to be on display at the art gallery especially in Kwatsaduza as is the case in other townships.
“This community has a lot of talented artists but they are not known. They are rather celebrated overseas. This can’t be something that we are proud of.
“It is unfortunate that the closest museum that we have is the Springs Art Gallery.
“Kwatsaduza residents would have to go to travel to town to appreciate the work of local artists which I believe is unfair,” he said.
Makhubo will be donating his Hector Peterson portrait as part of the June 16 commemorations in Soweto.
His wish is for it to be displayed in Kwa-Thema. Makhubu has started working with young artists in a bid to share his skills, especially on the business side of it.
Many talented artists fail in their careers because of being unable to interpret contracts. His paintings have a signature orange colour signifying hope and warmth.
Visiting his studio, one is welcomed by the warm colourful portraits of Hugh Masikela, Hector Peterson, and the Big Five among others.
The self-taught artist mastered his art through the hands of seasoned local artists who include Lucky Mabena and Madi Phala.
Makhubu told African Reporter that growing up, his mother Elizabeth Makhubo encouraged him to further his studies to secure a stable future and not only focus on his talent for painting.
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“It wasn’t easy but I had to heed the call to help financially support my family and promised myself to find time later in life to showcase my work.
“I used the spare time to learn from other artists and the business side,” he said.
Five years ago the artist decided to retire and turned his garage into a studio where he brings his ideas to life through paint and brush.
