Limpopo artist carves success with handmade wooden designs
Self-taught Limpopo artist Pfano Bebeda crafts wooden watches, bags, and furniture, turning his rural roots into a nationally recognised design brand.
LIMPOPO – From the quiet village of Tshandama near Thohoyandou, a self-taught artist is literally carving a name for himself in the world of design.
Pfano Bebeda, the 35-year-old founder of AB Design, has turned his passion for wood into a thriving creative enterprise that produces wooden watches, bags, utensils and furniture.
With no formal training, Bebeda’s journey began in 2016, fuelled by childhood memories of crafting wire cars and repairing things with his hands.
His natural flair for creating functional art led him to develop his skills through observation, practice, and a deep reverence for nature.
“The inspiration behind AB Design is the beauty from wood – the grain formations and the variety of colours,” he says.
Today, his work fuses traditional craftsmanship with modern design, earning him national recognition and exhibition slots across South Africa.
But for Bebeda, success isn’t just about visibility, but about purpose.
“My goal is to inspire others to do what inspires them,” he says.
His story resonates particularly with rural youths, proving that talent and determination can flourish beyond the bounds of formal education.
Despite facing challenges such as a lack of local market exposure, Bebeda remains undeterred.
“I focus on the national market and never limit my imagination. I’m always creating new collections.”
His resilience is reflected in his daily routine – designing and managing admin by night, and handcrafting by day.
