Silent auction puts eyes on Shayamoya artist Brandy

If it was not for the collective efforts of 3 unconnected people, Shayamoya’s budding artist Brandy Mgwijazwe’s creative talent would not have been discovered.

It all began in 2019 when Brandy was teaching religious studies at Christ Church in Shayamoya.

He had dreams of completing his matric and then studying metal work – objectives beyond the now 23-year-old’s financial means.

He was taken in by his mother’s partner, for whom Brandy hopes to one day build a proper home once he has the means.

Brandy’s passion for art was initially expressed on smaller items than a typical canvas, with shoes, jackets and shirts all serving to develop his talent.

For 3 years he spent his time commissioned by friends and others to pimp up their accessories.

“My friends at the time encouraged me to take it up as a profession, something I could be paid to do,” said Brandy, laughing because he seldom gets paid for these commissions.

But he is philosophical about it, saying that at least it gets his brand out there attracting referrals, which keeps him motivated.

With big dreams of one day creating comic art for studios such as Marvel, Brandy got his hands on fresh paint, brushes and more when the pastor at the church took notice of his passion.

Then a teacher at North Coast Agricultural College gave Brandy an incomplete canvas he wanted to throw away. Instead, he completed the artwork using his own vision.

“The piece is called ‘The Power of Nature’. It tells the story of how we as people must come together in peace – despite our differences – to stop the ideological war between capitalism and communism,” he said.

The artwork has since found its way to The Gallery at Ballito Lifestyle Centre.

“I hope to one day inspire others from the same background as me; people who come from a township, who easily lose hope. They must continue to pursue their dreams despite the odds they face.”

To assist Brandy reach his dreams, a silent auction is being run to raise funds for the budding artist. The auction starts at R3 000, and details can be obtained from The Gallery at 072 245 8691.