The future master of the paintbrush
While many of his peers might keep themselves busy with TikTok, he prefers spending his time perfecting his art – something he's truly passionate about.
At just 13, Zwelihle Mlambo aka Zweli has proven to be a master when it comes to drawing, painting and using oil pastels.
In an exclusive interview with the Herald, the young man said while many of his peers might keep themselves busy with TikTok, he prefers spending his time perfecting his art – something he’s truly passionate about.
Zwelihle said he discovered his talent in 2016 after perfecting a portrait of his grandfather, Wilson Malaza. This has since sparked something inside him which led to compliments from his family and friends.
“I’ve always liked to draw; my mother, Gugulethu Malaza said this was something I’ve always enjoyed doing, even when I was much younger.
“When I was a toddler, I would take crayons and draw on the walls, so she believes that this is something that has always been in me. I believe it too, because I don’t see myself doing anything else in my spare time,” Zwelihle said.
Zwelihle has drawn internationally renowned figures such as DJ Black Coffee; the late American rapper 2Pac; and the late South African actor Menzi Ngubane, to mention a few.
“I draw these figures because they’re all icons for a lifetime all in their own right. Take 2Pac for example, he died before I was born but he still made a huge difference in society,” Zwelihle said.
Sometimes he paints something that depicts reality and can easily be interpreted by everyone. Some of his work also includes simple things what nature has to offer.
He said he’s glad to have started this career at such a young age because this will give him a better chance to improve on his work, while he steadily earns his rightful place among other talented paintbrush minds.
“I want to achieve big things and travel the world. I want to show people what I can do with these hands,” he added.
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