Etwatwa visual artist Samuel Sibanyoni (16) has honoured Nelson Mandela, the first president of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, with an artistic portrait.
With his birthday on July 18, people around the globe will celebrate Madiba’s 106th birthday this year by devoting 67 minutes of their time to philanthropic causes.
The East Rand School of the Arts learner said his passion for drawing started at the age of 12 after being inspired by a friend who sketched cartoons from magazines.
“I ended up befriending the arts more than anyone else,” said Samuel.
His interest in art deepened, particularly in portraying real people, which he began exploring in Grade Nine in 2022.
One of his early subjects was Mzikayifani (Mzi) Khumalo, a former MEC Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), who praised Samuel’s talent and rewarded him financially to assist his family and cover school fees.
Samuel credits his teacher,Njabulo Hadebe, for nurturing his talent and curiosity in art.
Drawing has not only kept Samuel occupied but also steered him away from societal challenges like substance abuse and crime that affect many of his peers.
His commitment to art extends beyond personal fulfilment, as he uses his talent to address social issues and tell meaningful stories through his art.
Samuel aims to pursue a visual arts degree and hopes to establish programs to empower young artists to showcase their talents.
He believes in the importance of expanding access to arts education, echoing Mandela’s advocacy for freedom and education.
Samuel encouraged all young artists to unleash their creativity by being passionate and persevering in their artistic journey.
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