Reclaimed art by Blessing
Blessing, who is known in his art community in Kensington as Comrade Blessing Zhanje, was born in Zimbabwe.
Visual artist Blessing Zhanje recently donated one of his artworks to the Bedfordview Police Station.
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Blessing, who is known in his art community in Kensington as Comrade Blessing Zhanje, was born in Zimbabwe.
He studied art and moved to South Africa 19 years ago.
“I was fortunate to get a job in sales and marketing. I managed some timeshare sales before moving to other sales. I became the top salesmen for one of SA’s biggest gyms,” Blessing said.
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He then ventured into the field of golf in Cape Town but always retained his passion for art.
“I decided to leave sales and focus on my art. Everything I make is dedicated to my brother Christopher Tawanda Vengsa. If it wasn’t for him I would not be where I am today. He made me the person I am.”
Blessing said his brother always put him through the best schools.
Another inspiration for Blessing is his mother who was a nurse in Zimbabwe for 43 years.
“During her years of unbroken service to her community, she helped and healed many people.”
Blessing said he stays in a community of artists.
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“We are proud of what we do, who we are and where we come from.”
For his latest creations, Blessing uses only recycled materials.
“Everything I’ve made in my latest collection was reclaimed from the streets of Bedfordview,” he said.
Blessing explained that he starts his artistic process by finding wooden boards and shaping the shape of Africa.
“I fill the places where there are gaps in the wood with fallen signboards. Then the whole sculpture is covered in glue and allowed to dry.”
Piecing together material from old couches, clothing items and car seats Blessing covers the sculptures and adds his flare to the designs.
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His pieces are then turned into memorial pieces or clocks.
Blessing chose to donate some of his art pieces from his latest collection to key role players in the community, including the Bedfordview SAPS and Bedfordview Methodist Church.
“The police always put their lives on the line for the community and during Covid, the churches helped many people.”
Next on his list of achievements, Blessing hopes to secure a grant from the National Arts Council to continue his journey to becoming a successful artist.
