Glenwood wire artists now trading at KZNSA Gallery
"Covid-19 turned everything upside down. Our business is no longer functioning the way it used to. We used to have people from overseas giving us orders and companies used to give us business but now, there is nothing,"said Mpofu.
GLENWOOD wire artists, Victor Mpofu and Ezra Sekenhamo are now showcasing their bright and beautiful creations at the KZNSA Gallery.
This comes after they were fined R1500 by Metro Police and banned from operating on Bulwer Road for trading without a permit.
The talented artists, who are now awaiting their trading permit, said they started working and selling their art in Glenwood, at the corner of Helen Joseph, and Bulwer Road, since 2008.
According to the duo, they have never looked back despite the obstacles they have faced along the way.
ALSO READ: VIDEO: Community irate after Bulwer Road wire artists fined, banned from trading
Victor and Ezra are now on a mission to offer free lessons to people who are passionate about using their creativity to earn an income.
“This type of art needs patience. Sometimes you can spend the whole day without selling. You have to be creative and innovative so when people see your work, they would love it. Business is seasonal, if it is normal days we can make sales, but it does not compare to the festive season. That’s when we sell to visitors from different places. They support us and that’s how we make a living,” said Mpofu.
When asked how the pandemic has affected their business, he said, “Covid-19 turned everything upside down. Our business is no longer functioning the way it used to.
We used to have people from overseas giving us orders and companies used to give us business but now, there is nothing. We are now living from hand to mouth. Sometimes, we go without selling anything which makes it hard for us to even pay for the accommodation we reside in.
The duo is also requesting for people to get in touch with them to share ideas on how to enhance their work. To share your ideas and suggestions or to find out more on the free lessons, contact Victor on 073 599 2315.
