Ntsako Mabunda
LIMPOPO – Tsubdzuka Cedrick Mavasa, a young sculptor from Basani village approximately 50 km from Giyani, inherited a special gift from his grandfather – the ability to look at any piece of wood and imagine how he can transform it into a thing of beauty.
Bored at home one day, the would-be artist walked to the forest and, seeing all the wood, he decided to gather some pieces that would turn out to be his first attempt at sculpting.
Pleased with his own efforts, Mavasa continued to teach himself to craft wooden art to the amazement of everyone, especially his family.
With his new-found interest and the encouragement of his family, Mavasa continued with his art and shared his knowledge. His younger brother, Try Mahlori, was especially keen to learn from him and has since become his apprentice and partner.
Mavasa fondly remembers a time when he was laughed at for taking up “an old man’s work”.
Now the brothers’ parents are proud that their sons wake-up each morning and sit under a tree working incessantly until late. The only time they leave their work station is when they set off to the forest to stock up on more wood.
Unlike so many of their peers without means to study further after matric or without jobs, the brothers do not waste time with partying or abusing substances. Working in a rural environment, their biggest challenge is making enough money to survive and grow their business.
They regret information about workshops and exhibitions to learn more and showcase their work is not yet coming their way. “People buy necklaces and accessories, mainly.
“For us they are also quicker to make and more affordable than the bigger wood pieces. It would be great if our products could reach a wider client base. So the art can reach out to people and make them appreciate the beauty of our country and our art,” says Mavasa. I’m grateful that I discovered my talent to help with generating an income. I wish more young people could find and embrace their talents,” added the young artist.
