A FELEKISI man has turned his love for painting and drawing into a business that not only puts food on the table but also teaches others to develop their talents.

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Moses Gama regularly sells his paintings at Beach Road in Amanzimtoti and recently had a stall at the Highland Gathering where his art proved popular. Originally from Malawi, Gama said he loved sketching from a young age and gradually developed his talent as he grew older.

“It was in 2017 that I decided to do it full-time and make a living off it,” said Moses.

He said he feels lucky that he can make an income doing something he enjoys, because it does not feel as if he is working. What makes him love his job even more is that he finds it relaxing when he is creating an art piece, and he also gets to interact with people from different walks of life. He paints different subjects, such as people, animals, plants, and cars.

If he is not painting commissioned work, Gama said he freestyles and does not plan the subject. Much of his time is taken up by training his two young apprentices, Asabonga Thwala and Aphiwe Shozi, whom he found in his community after they showed an interest in learning to draw. Thwala said he enjoys learning to draw and paint and wishes to open his own art studio one day.

“Even though it is difficult, my hand is getting used to it, and my technique is improving. Moses is a very good teacher, and he’s patient with us,” said Thwala.

For further details about the artwork call Gama on 067 980 7506.

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