His hands are his treasure
His amazing hands turn wire into golden art.
NOTE TO LAYOUT: ZINHLE NKOSI AND LAKEY KUMALO TO BE USED AS VOX-POP
WHENEVER he starts working with a piece of wire and beads, something magical happens. Out of nothing he brings out the most beautiful and true-to-life work of art.
Kembo Kaitano from South Hills said his hands put food on the table and help pay his children’s school fees.
He makes all kinds of animals, windmills, cars and shoes.
It takes him three days to finish artwork of animals, while other creations take a few hours.
Kaitano did arts in school and while he was still there he started making cars, which he sold to his peers to support his family.
After completing his studies he tried searching for employment, but luck was not on his side. He then decided to utilise his skills to make ends meet.
Speaking to the COURIER, he said he first made a bird, which people loved and from that he received several orders.
“Seeing how people loved my work, I started making a lot of these crafts and sold them. I was surprised that people loved something I did with my bare hands.
“I then started to go around the streets selling my products, and it yielded positive results as I’m here today and still going,” said Kaitano.
Passing on his skills
In a month he makes about 200 pieces, which he sells on the streets.
His prices range from R50 to R800, depending on what the customer wants.
“I only need the money to support my little ones and buy material to keep my small business going,” he said.
Kaitano has employed two people who play the important role of distributing his products around South Hills and surrounding areas.
He doesn’t keep his skills to himself but teaches other youngsters who desire to work with wire.
“I teach people to use their hands to sustain themselves and the response has been good.
“Everyone I have taught has been exceptional and some have started their own projects,” Kaitano explained.
Kaitano wishes to get his own place where he can design his works, teach others and hire people in order to expand his business.
Pardon Mlambo, one of the people working with Kaitano, said Kaitano loves what he does and enjoys sharing his skill with people.
“I wish him the best in everything he does and hope his business grows to such an extent that people from overseas acknowledge his works,” said Mlambo.
Four things to know about Mlambo
· He started selling his works in 1998.
· He sells paintings occasionally.
· He has two children.
· Reading is one of his hobbies.
