John is an aspiring artist in Ruimsig
John hopes to grow his knowledge of art and create for a bigger audience.
John Nkosi (24) has been putting pen, or piece of charcoal, to paper and creating artwork since he started art classes in Grade 10.
“We were assigned to draw a self-portrait and that’s when I realised I was good at sketching. Seeing the feedback
I got from my friends and teacher was very enlightening and from there on that’s when the passion and curiosity to create began,” explained John, chuckling as he added that he thought it was just a stroke of luck at first.
John attended The Hill High School in the South of Johannesburg and stated that although he built his foundation knowledge of art at high school, the rest of it is self-taught.
Talking about his inspiration for his art and the faces or figures his creations embody, John explained that it’s a mixture of both faces he’s seen in person as well as images as referenced from magazines or newspapers of people.
“I then infuse it with my imagination,” added John.
He explained that although he didn’t grow up in Ruimsig, he moved there as a change of scenery.
“Living in the city was a bit crowded and the rent this side is also a bit more affordable.”
When John isn’t sketching his next big masterpiece, he enjoys photography, exercises at Ruimsig Stadium, and spends time with those close to him.
“In terms of work, I’m pursuing art full time,” concluded John, “My goals for the future are to get a bigger studio, be more involved in philanthropy, and expose myself more to a wider audience.”
If you are interested in John’s art or would like to speak to him about it, he will be at the next Art in the Garden at Alice Art Gallery.
