WATCH: Learner turns heads with portrait of Ricky Rick
After matric, the teen said he wanted to obtain a fine art qualification at the University of Pretoria.
East Rand School of the Arts (ERSA) learner Siphesihle Hlatswayo (16) has paid tribute to his favourite hip-hop star, the late Ricky Rick, through his artistic portrait.
Rikhado Makhado, popularly known as Riky Rick, died last month.
The Grade 11 learner, who took two days to perfect his masterpiece, said he drew Rick Rick’s picture to keep his spirit alive.
“I wanted to remember Ricky Rick through this picture because he was my favourite artist and I looked up to him. When I heard he died, it took some time for the news to sink in,” he said.
Siphesihle said when he brought the picture to school, he was overwhelmed by the support he received.
Besides the portrait of Ricky Rick, he has drawn other artists, including Young Stunna, Sir Trill and actor Warren Masemola.
He also drew a picture of his fellow schoolmates and Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi.
The 16-year-old, who lives in Chris Hani in Daveyton, told the City Times he discovered he likes to draw at age five when his grandmother would give him a tissue to draw on as he couldn’t sit for long hours doing nothing.
“What intrigued other children, such as watching television, didn’t intrigue me. All I wanted to do was to draw.
“Now that I’m older and have perfected my drawing skills, I understand that art is what I visualise and express based on my everyday surroundings,” said Siphesihle.
He has so far sold eight portraits through word of mouth and social media.
After matric, the teen said he wanted to obtain a fine art qualification at the University of Pretoria.
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