Whether it’s a beaded key ring or a motorbike made from wire, most, if not all homes across South Africa boast unique handmade arts and crafts.

Popular among tourists and even the locals, handmade arts and crafts will forever be a symbol of South African culture and a representation of hidden talents.

But do you know where to find these works of art in Ballito?

4. Ballito Junction

Brightly coloured paper-mâché Hoopoes and hot pink wire flamingos have been turning heads at the Ballito Junction Regional mall.

Set up in the corridor next to Dischem Pharmacy, these eye-catching works of art are the products of the talented Jeffrey Chitsumba and Adam Sahwenge.

These two goal-getters are from Zimbabwe and previously sold their wares at Clark Bay beach.

When the mall opened they boldly approached the management with their rather unique products.

Sahwenge specialises in paper-mâché, making zebras, birds, big mamas and he is planning to include more to his collection, such as fish and cats.

Chitsumba – the wire master – loves to use his craft to bring animals, like his funky chameleons, to life.

3. WowZulu

The WowZulu marketplace is based at the Sangweni Tourism Centre, next to the old taxi rank in Ballito.

WowZulu is a Durban based non-profit rural development agency that has worked across rural areas for more than a decade.

The marketplace comes in the form of a colourful container filled with uniquely designed, handcrafted products such as jewellery, mats and even board games with each telling a story of Ilembe’s history.

2. Beachfront

Taking a stroll down to the beach just would not be the same without being greeted by one of the many beach vendors sitting under the shady trees.

Also read: The life of a Willard beach vendor

Well stocked with an array of goodies, beach vendors sell anything from hats and children’s toys to beautiful handmade jewellery and handmade crafts.

Find them at Willard beach, Clarke Bay, Thompson’s Bay and Salt Rock main beach among others

1. Beadwork by Eric Sthole

Erica Sthole of Shaka’s Head has set up a small stand next to the lifesaver’s cabin on Willard Beach where he has developed a fun and quirky approach to his craft.

To make his work unique he collects bottles of all shapes and sizes, washes them and decorates them with copper wire and beads. He does the same to tin mugs.

“What looks like rubbish to most people, to me is business and I use my skills to make you pay for what you have thrown away.

“You can also bring anything of your choice and I can decorate it with wire and beads,” said Sthole.

>>  Ready to say ‘I Do’ on the Dolphin Coast? Meet the team ready to advise, help and deliver on your big day.

>>  Visit our Education feature for a collection of all the best schools, tutoring systems, and even some colleges and training facilities on the North Coast.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram