In support of Youth Month, the Benoni City Times shines a spotlight on Lulamani Ndlangamandla (29), a self-taught illustrator and the owner of Lula Creations.
The Chief Albert Luthuli Park resident has illustrated several books, including the Khwezi children’s book series by Phumzile Mthembu, Shedding by Africa S Dlamini and the children’s book We are all Equal by Dikamohelo Nkutha.
He has also worked with well-known artists such as Jaymadness Kanobhalane, Sandy, Smartblack Mampondo, Naledi Aphiwe, Quality Biyela and Physical Da Animal from Daveyton.
Before venturing into the arts, however, Ndlangamandla worked at a retail store. He quit his job to follow his passion.
“My passion for graphic design began as a child. I have always been good with visual arts and often helped my classmates with assignments that required drawing. I recall using markers to draw on the school walls occasionally.
“To harness my skill, I watched tutorial videos online and would observe artists on various social media pages.
“When I started posting my designs, I received a lot of reaction from the public, who also requested me to design for them.”
Ndlangamandla said social media played a pivotal role in helping him market his brand.
He admires several professionals in the arts, including Enam Bosokah, a visual artist from Ghana; Sanele Matsolo, Makhafula Vilakazi; Sjava Indlalifa; and musician and entrepreneur DJ Sbu.
“They execute their craft perfectly, and their work resonates with me,” Ndlangamandla said.
Ndlangamandla’s goals are to pursue a qualification in digital media design and own a digital media company.
His message to aspiring illustrators is, “Draw every day. It helps a lot for creativity, consistency and growth.”
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