Local artist presents his idol with a painting

A local up-and-coming artist, Vusi Qwabe, from Sivana Section has presented his long-time gymnastic hero, Zama Mofokeng, with a portrait of the sports star that he painted himself.

Qwabe said he was inspired to create a painting of Mofokeng because of the massive talent the gymnastic star has.

“What I liked about him the most is that he chose a different sporting code, previously believed to be a white men’s sport. He chose it and excelled at it,” explained Qwabe.

He said he started noticing Mofokeng’s talent after he saw him perform and was surprised and touched at the same time to see that townships kids have what it takes to do this kind of sport.

“I have been following him and his career ever since I saw him perform for the first time. And just when people were thinking he would not get anywhere, he proved everybody wrong and he is still going strong. This painting is my small token just to show him that he is appreciated and his enormous talent is being noticed. I know it’s not a big beautiful painting like others, but this comes from the heart,” said Qwabe.

Accepting the portrait, Mofokeng said he felt honoured and humbled by the gesture.

“It feels good to be appreciated and supported by your own people first. This gift may look small, but, to me, it’s a huge thing and for that I will forever be grateful,” said Mofokeng.