While many think of art as a hobby, Sibulele Mtshabe pursued his dream and acquired a qualification in fine arts.
This Vaal Triangle graduate said he now makes a living from drawing people’s portraits and African landscapes.
“It is something I am passionate about. Art is all around us; I live it. Everything we do revolves around art. You cannot draw a line separating the arts and life,” said the fine-artist.
Mr Mtshabe said as a young boy, when he left Matatiele to visit Johannesburg or Cape Town, he would ask himself how the monumental sculptures he saw were made and why.
He said that is what sparked a love for art in him, and he started drawing landscapes and township scenes.
“In grade 6, I won first prize in a competition for drawing. Winning didn’t change my view on life even though, back then, fine art was never perceived as a career or a profession,” said Mr Mtshabe.
He said in grade 10 his uncle asked him what he wanted to do after matric and his answer was art.
His parents did not approve but he chose to follow his dream.
“I started reading up on people who were doing art and used the media to learn about the course.
“I then came to Joburg to study. I had no finances for my studies and my parents would not talk to me for something like two weeks,” Mr Mtshabe said.
He said his grandmother financed his first-year studies because she didn’t want to see him sitting at home.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect in tertiary. Studying art was completely different from what I had perceived art to be. I never knew anything about concepts. Before I would just draw things from my head or copy things from magazines,” Mr Mtshabe said.
His skills improved tremendously through his studies.
“At some point I was the top achiever in figure-drawing studies and I developed confidence.”
He said since then he has never looked back.
“Now I am self-employed, making a living out of art. I can say I am doing well.”
He enters competitions and showcases his work at art exhibitions.
“My first expensive piece was R20 000. It was sold before it was even finished. I was ecstatic and I built myself a proper studio with that money,” said Mr Mtshabe.
Mr Mtshabe also expanded his art to graphic design, photography and ceramic design. He also teaches art.
“I give private lessons and I also do commissioned work.”
“I also teach art as a healing therapy,” Mr Mtshabe said.
He said young people who aspire to be fine artists must communicate with art institutions and visit galleries and flea markets to draw inspiration.
“Be true and faithful to your craft. I think that is the key and the rest will follow.”
