Local artist Goodman Tibane (32) from eMbalenhle says discovering his talent for portrait drawing came during one of the most painful moments of his life following the death of his parents years ago.
Tibane explained that after losing his parents, he felt alone and turned to drawing as a form of healing.
Using only a pencil, he began sketching portraits of his late parents and soon realised he had a natural artistic gift.
“My drawings started as therapy after losing my parents. One of my first major works was a portrait of late Kwaito star Mandoza.
“Many people became interested in my art and started asking me to draw portraits for them and paying me for the work,” said Tibane.
He recently presented a hand-drawn portrait to Nhlakanipho Zuma and is working on a portrait of Fanyana Sibanyoni, chairperson of the Vukanini Taxi Association and Mpumalanga South African National Taxi Council.
“These are influential leaders within our community,” he added.
Tibane said his passion for portrait art goes beyond making money, describing it as something deeply personal and emotional.
“I do not do portraits only for profit. It is something I truly love. My art must communicate with me and with the person looking at it. When I draw, the portrait must reflect emotion,” he said.
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According to Tibane, portraits carry different emotions and meanings depending on the subject.
“There are different types of portraits — some show sadness, happiness, or even represent a person’s position or occupation.
“That is what I call communication between the portrait, the artist, and the viewer,” he explained.
He added that portraits also reveal personal expression and emotions, making each artwork unique. He dreams of building his own art gallery for people.
Community members interested in having their portraits drawn can contact Tibane on 072 798 0727.
