Local artist’s solo exhibition invites interest

One of Polokwane Municipality’s initiatives for Youth Month is a solo art exhibition by local born and bred self-taught artist Samuel Baloyi. The exhibition was officially opened in the Polokwane Art Museum last Wednesday and was attended by a crowd of art lovers.
Baloyi’s exhibition features 24 of his own works of art including drawings, paintings and sculptures and will be on display until 31 August.
Besides being a full time artist, he is also a tailor, a fashion designer and a hair stylist. His medium varies from cement, textile and wood to paint and his work is collected widely across the province in mostly private art collections.
Baloyi said to Polokwane Observer that he is a former juvenile inmate but has never given up hope in life. “This art exhibition is specifically made to celebrate the ‘Never say die attitude’ among our youth who have to make it in life even under harsh conditions and circumstances,” Baloyi explained.
He is based in Kwena Moloto, Moletji and said that he enjoys art because everything he sees inspires him to create. “I love colours and prefer orange because it is such a lively colour. Art allows me to sustain myself in a very satisfying way,” Baloyi said and added that he does not chase money. “Money chases me,” he jokingly said.
Baloyi’s advice to young people is to develop their talent and chase their dreams. “It is hard work, but it pays off in the end and nothing of significance is achieved without real effort,” he concluded.
A local art specialist that prefers not to be named said that art collectors, art lovers and investors are encouraged to snatch up Baloyi’s works while they are still affordable.
“At the speed that his work is growing, his art works could be unaffordable to an ordinary person in the near future due to its accumulated value.
A number of dance groups performed at the opening ceremony and contributed to the African ambience that was reflected in some of the art works on display.

Story, photos & video: BARRY VILJOEN
>>barryv.observer@gmail.com