eMbalenhle artist uses his talent to put food on the table
“A strong portrait captivates viewers and draws them into the painting. As it engages their attention, it causes a viewer to wonder about the person depicted and tells the story of that person’s life.”
eMBALENHLE – Mr Thokozani Khumalo (21) from Mandela Section in eMbalenhle specialises in portraits and restoring colour on sneakers.
After completing his matric in the year 2018, he applied to different universities to study art but unfortunately none of these institutions responded to his applications.
“To be rejected by the institutions of higher learning has opened my eyes as a young person,” he said.
His family wanted him to further his studies, but was supportive when he told them that he did not receive feedback from these institutions.
“I told my mother that I wanted to turn my school hobby into something that will bring food to the table.
“She agreed, but warned me not to get involved in crime and drugs,” said Mr Khumalo.
This young man is now doing art from home and said people come with T-shirts on which to paint his artistic representation of their face.
“The intention is to display the likeness, personality or even the mood of that person because sometimes its difficult for people to understand their personality. Through art they can see their real self and sometimes it assist in changing behaviours,” said Mr Khumalo.
He intends to open an art school and to help the talented youth who cannot study further.
Mr Khumalo said his art fetches an income. He also sketches the faces of well known musicians and actors in the country.
“I met these musicians and actors through social media platforms after they saw my work.
“A strong portrait captivates viewers and draws them into the painting.
“As it engages their attention, it causes a viewer to wonder about the person depicted and tells the story of that person’s life.”
Mr Khumalo posts every artwork online and he attends many exhibitions, especially around Gert Sibande District.
“My dream is to go and represent Mpumalanga and the country abroad, as I want to transfer skills to the unemployed youth with artistic talents,” said Mr. Khumalo.
He said his artistic talent began as a hobby but now turned into a business that will create opportunities for others in the future.
Anyone who is interested in his portraits or who wants to learn about art, can contact him at 076 688 2575 or on Facebook under TKae-junior.
