LIMPOPO – Locally, many people appreciate the work of sculptor Morris Maphangule from Tshaulu Tshilaphala, but outside of Vhembe he is relatively unknown.
Maphangule is a pensioner who uses dead pieces of wood he collects from the wilderness to craft his sought-after creations. Although he has been in the competitive woodcarving industry for only three years, Maphangule has made his mark among the locals who appreciate his work and buy his products.
Maphangule’s wooden products range from coffee spoons, tables, and wooden trays to watches and trophies. He said he enjoys to work alone, as he regards his job as more of a hobby than a money-making venture. He said that, to him, woodcarving is an art.
“I can fashion a piece of dead wood into all kinds of artifacts I want,” he explained and added his inspiration comes from the memory of his late father. “The only way to honour him was to keep his legacy alive by creating wooden utensils.”
Maphangule is also very proud to be able to contribute to the economic development of the country.
“It is not about money or fame. We have to strive to build our society, regardless of our age. I want to encourage my fellow pensioners to do something that will uplift their communities. Not only do I keep myself busy, I acquire new skills on a daily basis and this makes my mind stronger everyday.”
He reckons age should not be a deterrent, especially for artists. “Being old does not mean one cannot build one’s community. As elders, we have extensive knowledge that we must share with the youth for the development of our nation,” he added. He hopes the publicity for his creations will now motivate other artists. “I have seen many sculptors who cannot even match my ability, but still exhibits their sculptures and get media attention. I hope there will now be light at the end of the tunnel after I worked in the dark for many years,” said Maphangule.
Maphangule can be contacted on 072 326 2939.
