Kwa-Thema’s Nico Phooko joins Joy of Jazz panel to inspire next generation of musicians
Kwa-Thema-born painter Nico Phooko, renowned for his groundbreaking live painting performances, has been invited to the prestigious Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Youth Workshop to guide and inspire young creatives on September 17 at the Joburg Theatre.
Kwa-Thema visionary painter Nico Phooko has been selected by Standard Bank Joy of Jazz to be part of their panel of professionals in the arts and music industry to inspire young up-and-coming jazz musicians on their journey to greener pastures.
Phooko, born and raised in Kwa-Thema, is one of Africa’s most talented visual artists, renowned for pioneering the innovative concept of live painting.
“I always wanted to be art. Even though there was a time when I thought I would study law, my heart was always in the arts,” he explained.
The 2025 Jazz Wise Youth Music Business Workshop is set to bring together arts industry trailblazers for an exciting day designed to empower young creatives and stars of the future on September 17 at the Joburg Theatre.
Through this unique approach, he skillfully captures the essence of special events in real time, translating them onto canvas as they unfold. Phooko creates artwork live while musical performances unfold on stage, making the final artwork a treasured memento and a valuable collector’s item.
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Phooko’s extensive live painting portfolio includes numerous award ceremonies, private and corporate gala dinners, conferences, weddings, children’s celebrations, music launches, and many other prominent events.
He admits that, just like any career, one always wonders if they will be able to make a living while doing what they are passionate about.
“Art is a noble career. So many people are waking up to that now. It is better than when we were younger,” he said.
The event is open to young people in high school, students doing grades 9 to 12, college and university students, and young professionals aged between 20 and 25 years old.
The day’s keynote speaker will be Nomfundo Xaluva, a multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, composer and academic.
An assortment of speakers and panellists will include global marketing strategist Judith Mungweni, Lebo Lion, multi-award-winning South African photographer Neo Ntsoma, and Busisiwe Ntintili, a multiple award-winning film and television writer, director and producer, among others.
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