Joseph Macheu is the manager of Impumelelo Self Help Centre for Quadriplegics in Pollak Park and an artist who uses his mouth to paint.
He is passionate about art and trusts in God that his art will reach new heights.
Where were you born?
I was born and raised in Limpopo in a village called Mamaile, commonly known as Ga-Phaphadi. I moved to Johannesburg to study banking but because of finances at home, I could not finish my studies.
Before your love for art, what were you doing?
Before I discovered my love for art, I found an opportunity to work for a bank in 2001.
I worked for one of the branches in Kempton Park for six years. I also got an opportunity to work for other banks where I sustained my injuries.
How did you become disabled?
I don’t want to dwell much on how I became disabled because it reminds me of how horrific it was when it happened.
All I can say is I was shot in my neck and it affected my ability to walk and I’m unable to use my hands.
Are you married?
I was married and after I got injured, I separated from the mother of my daughter. My daughter just turned 20. I am super proud of her. She just finished matric and is looking at studying nursing this year.
When did you discover your passion for art?
I met this guy at an event called Breaking Bearers who painted for tourists. I approached him and asked if he could assist me in learning how to paint but he couldn’t. Not because I was disabled but because I lived far. But what he did was refer me to someone, Alice Cech, who taught children from age six.
I was really curious and I told myself that I would become an artist.
Also read: Getting to know Dudu Malapane
How did you learn to paint using your mouth?
In that class, I was the only disabled person who started, and later on, I started recruiting. I taught myself how to hold the brush to paint and also to select the brushes I would be using. It was difficult at first but I told myself that this is what I will be doing and now I am mastering the art.
Do you sell your paintings?
I haven’t sold the way I wanted. I am hoping to be invited to exhibitions where people can see my paintings, then maybe I will make sales. It takes me weeks or a month to finish a painting depending on the size.
What are you hoping to achieve?
To be able to make an income with my paintings. I am also patient and I am hoping to collaborate with another artist to learn more.
What are your hopes and dreams?
To see my paintings all over the world. I realised South Africans are not really fans of paintings. I want to collaborate with other artists, especially locals and run an exhibition for the world.
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