Nkonzo (Koolkid) Mdaka from eMbalenhle is a gifted artist
Koolkid has made name for himself in the sketching and tattoo industry
eMBALENHLE – Nkonzo Lindelani (Koolkid) Mdaka has begun to build his first art gallery where he will showcase his artistic skills.
This has always been his dream and he is happy that finally, his dreams are becoming a reality.
Koolkid uses his skills and creative ideas to sketch, among others, human portraits.
He has also grown to become a tattoo artist.
What began as a hobby, has gained him the hearts of clients who book him for various portraits, including individual and family portraits.
Koolkid’s talent has transformed into a business and now puts food on the table.
The self-taught artist is now known as one of the best local sketch artists.
He decided to advance his business by also becoming a tattoo artist.
It all began in 2016 when he was in Grade 12 and was selling his artwork for pocket money.
After completing matric he did not have the privilege to study further.
He did not allow this to pull him down but instead, he used it as a chance to establish a business.
Koolkid used to sketch and sell his artworks at Mall@eMba.
“I am actually proud of myself that I did not feel inferior about what I was doing.
“I am glad I did not give up despite the challenges I faced.”
Koolkid said this taught him never to despise humble beginnings, and that hard work pays off.
He added that sketching is a rare talent in the area and he wants to inspire other young people to consider it as it is very fulfilling.
Koolkid prides himself for making the decision to become a tattoo artist.
He said he saved money and bought the tattoo equipment.
“I sacrificed a lot in order to save money. I did not buy clothes, go out, or anything.
“Today I am enjoying the fruits of my labour.”
He built an art gallery in his parents backyard.
He is thankful that his parents allowed him to do that.
Koolkid said he will use this as a chance to mobilise other upcoming artists by working together and formalising his business.
He encouraged his peers not to sit down and complain about what they do not have, but instead, to rise and nurture their God-given talents.
“I think life is much more fun an a lot easier when you do what you love the most. It would not help to go to university and study engineering when you know you would not like it.
“I am not the type of a person who will work just to make money, I want to do what I love and to help others realise their potential.”
Koolkid is also intending to study art to improve his artwork.
