Artist Enos shares skills with Tshandama youth

LIMPOPO – Enos Phalanndwa, a multi-talented artist and pensioner, continues to create remarkable art while passing on his skills to the youth in Tshandama village.

“I started sculpting in 1972. At first, it was just a hobby, but I soon realised I had a real talent for it,” he said.

Phalanndwa’s work, which borders on fine art, includes everything from chairs and tables to animal and human figures, bowls, trays and large wooden spoons.

His creations are not only popular but also sell well, which he attributes to their accessibility and affordability.

“I don’t charge much, and this makes good business sense to me. To be honest, I’ve never gone to bed hungry since I started,” he added.

Phalanndwa advises those with special skills to put them to use instead of waiting for employment.

“Your skills can become your employer, and if used on a large scale, they could also create jobs for others,” he said. His customers include both locals and tourists who stop at his roadside exhibition. Even on days when sales are slow, he manages to sustain himself through his craft. “I see this more as a hobby than a money-making venture,” he said.

Despite his success, Phalanndwa is seeking assistance to promote his wood carvings on a national level, believing that it would be a breakthrough for his career.

“After working in obscurity for so many years, I hope there will finally be a light at the end of the tunnel,” he expressed.

He has also started conducting arts workshops and skill-transfer programs for local youths

His yard fills with learners after school, and he has also constructed an open-sided shelter to serve as a classroom for these sessions.