Innibos festival unlocks growth opportunities for emerging painter

Innibos has not only brought people together in the Lowveld, but has also helped to open doors for an emerging painter.

Dumisani Nhlebeya had his work exhibited at the Mbombela Art Gallery on Wednesday and said the opportunity has helped him to form relationships with new clients and other experienced artists.

“People were impressed with my talent and people told me that I have a unique talent that is worth nurturing. It is a great feeling receiving feedback from people,” he said.

Dumisani was invited by Marietjie Henning who works at the gallery to exhibit his work at the exhibition. “I feel good about this opportunity.

“I got my name out there among that of other artists,” he said.

Marietjie has been monitoring his growth in the industry and said she is sure he is set to make a name for himself. “In a short space of time he has done very well. His strong point is pencil drawing and if that can be prioritised, he will do well,” she said.

Marietjie also said the benefits of using art was that it creates self-employment. The gallery also arranges workshops for him and other emerging artists.

Dumisani was turned away from the local Tshwane University of Technology in 2014 and said that made him feel as if his whole life had ended.

He wanted to enrol for graphic design, but he was told that the programme was full. He was forced to return home. “I went back home to Bushbuckridge and lived near a friend who did pencil sketches.

“I learned the ropes and after some time I was able to do the basics,” he said. Dumisani charges R200 for a drawing that takes him a day to complete. I am able to sketch a person while he sits with me. I can also do that using any picture that is given to me,” he said.

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