MASTER telephone wire weaver Zodwa Sibiya will be featured for the month of May at the Woza Moya Artists’ Wall.

Sibiya is a skilled wire basket weaver from Zululand, now based in Matata, eNanda. She learned her craft in the vibrant KwaMashu Siyanda weaving community, a hub known for its rich tradition of telephone wire art.

Over 21 years, she has developed a unique style, creating bowls that combine geometric patterns with animals, human figures, and elements of nature, reflecting both technical mastery and creativity.

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She said her complex designs were first inspired by Vincent Sithole, the late master weaver, and she went on to weave animals and human figures into her bowls.

Sibiya explained that she loves weaving elements from nature, particularly animals, trees, and plants. Her work reflects the beauty she sees in the natural world, and she believes every piece should carry that beauty to wherever it goes.

She said that telephone wire weaving requires more than technique.

“You must have a good eye for colour. Choosing the right wire combinations takes skill, instinct, and experience.”

For her, colour is never accidental, it is always intentional.

Her work is highly detailed, requiring careful selection of wire colours and precise weaving techniques. She has contributed to collaborative initiatives, including the DiroZulu Project, which explored contemporary interpretations of telephone–wire art. Her bowls have also been featured internationally, including in The Pasatiempo magazine in New Mexico.

Sibiya’s work will be showcased alongside that of fellow women weavers, honouring the mothers within KZN’s telephone wire community. For generations, this artistry has been much more than a craft; it is a vital skill that has empowered these women to earn a living and raise their children.

Helping artists earn income

The concept behind the Woza Moya Artists’ Wall and Artists’ Cards is to create and showcase artists’ work. Woza Moya is the economic empowerment project of the Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust and assists the artist by marketing their work for the month. The Woza Moya Artists’ Wall thanked the 100% Foundation for coming on board with an ongoing sponsorship and making this monthly event possible.

Shop opening times:
Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 16:00 Woza Moya Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust, 26 Old Main Road, Hillcrest
Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 17:00 Woza Moya, Kloof Fields Centre
Saturdays 08:00 – 14:00 HACT and 09:00 – 14:00 Kloof Fields shop
Email: wozamoya@hillaids.org.za

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