Art a reflection of Thandazani Ndlovu’s opinion
After several well-received series, Ndlovu began exhibiting, showcasing at art festivals and featuring in galleries throughout Africa.
The phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words” best describes the work of Thandazani Ndlovu. He is married to popular Gugulethu singer, Princess Indlovukazi. Ndlovu is currently working on a series of artworks under the theme “graduates”.
“With this series of paintings, I’m questioning our education system. Are our youth getting the education they should be getting in the first place? While there are good aspects to it, I think it’s a type of education that prepares us only for the workplace. So who does it really serve? What does this education mean to the majority of black youth in South Africa?”
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Ndlovu worked with and mentored a number of artists from the province. He was part of the E3 Learning Centre and Arts Africa.
The Zimbabwe-born, self-taught figurative and impressionist artist’s career almost did not get off the ground. He had worked in a shoe factory before finding his purpose in art.
His first big breakthrough was after creating a series that featured the dying cultures of Africa.
“These works were revered by many, mostly due to the light it shone on African culture and traditions. It acted as a reminder to the elite and those that worked in places like the factory where I worked, that we all were bonded by the same African roots,” he said.
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This full-time artist also finds time to give back to his community through his support of local orphanages and fundraising initiatives.
He wishes to create awareness of social issues and to make a difference for disadvantaged children all over the world.
Today, his works are in gallery collections and art networks throughout the world. He has painted famous people like music maestro Oliver Mtukudzi, DJ Heavy K, Lucky Hadebe and his love, Princess Indlovukazi.
His achievements include winning third prize at the Intwasa Arts Festival and being commissioned by the Newtown Workers Museum to do an artwork for their workers’ cottages. His advice to anyone interest in these skills is that they should practise every day, be unique and use social media platforms to market their work.
