After leaving his home in Zimbabwe, wire and bead artist Genius Fernando made a life for himself as a creative and entrepreneur in Edenvale.

His work and his colleagues’ work can be seen colourfully displayed at the intersection of Seventeenth Avenue, where Second Street becomes Homestead Road.

Explaining how he became a wire and bead artist, Genius said he came to South Africa in search of employment.

“When I left Zimbabwe, because of the situation, I didn’t have a job, I came to SA looking for work.”

When Genius left, he left his mother and uncle behind, and although his wife has since returned to Zimbabwe, he said he misses them dearly.

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Originally settling down in Thembisa, Genius lived there for several years, working in the building and construction industry.

Genius explained that working in the building industry was physically taxing. He added that many other industries were also seeking employees, so at times it could be difficult to find work.

Hoping to improve his chances, Genius left the industry and found someone who could teach him a skill so that he could start his own business.

That skill was wire-and-bead artwork.

Genius explained that growing up, he had always been drawn to creative outlets.

“I used to draw, I started with pencil, and then I moved into wire and bead work.”

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After learning his skill, Genius decided to move to Edenvale.

“It has been hard, but it was definitely worth it. Over the years, I started enjoying the work more and more.”

He explained that the community in Edenvale have always supported him and his fellow artists over the years.

“Very few people know how to do wire and bead art as professionals. There is also no one to fight with us here in Edenvale.”

Explaining his creative process, Genius said he does not start with any design or drawing for his creations.
“I have an idea in my mind of what the project should look like, and I work towards that,” he said.

He said what he enjoys most about his work is seeing the finished artwork he has completed.

“I enjoy that my work is creative and I am able to express myself through it.

“I enjoy seeing my finished creations and being proud of what I have made,” highlighted Genius.

He said one of his greatest dreams is to one day see one of his artworks in a gallery.