eMalahleni’s street artist draws for a higher purpose
Sipho Mashinini said he donates the money he gets from drawing live portraits of people around the City of Coal.
Sipho Mashinini has turned the busy streets of eMalahleni into his personal studio, drawing live portraits of residents for a small fee.
Born and bred in eMalahleni, the 36-year-old goes around busy areas such as parks, shopping centres, and sports fields, looking for potential clients.
“Everything has been going so well, even though people sometimes complain that my prices are too low,” Sipho said. “I have good reasons why my prices are low; it is because I run a religious programme and I also donate the money.”
The artist’s journey began in 1995 when he started drawing as a hobby. However, after over two decades, he said he took a leap of faith in 2020 and ventured into business.
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“People responded quite well, and that is why I’m still drawing even today,” he said.
While sketching on the streets keeps him grounded, Sipho said he continues to develop his craft. He said his biggest goal is to one day own a big gallery and to thrive in his music and dance career, which he is also into.
For aspiring artists, Sipho emphasised that consistency is key.
“Do not go a day without drawing so that you can develop your skill, because practice makes perfect,” he said.
The Drakensberg Boys Choir hits the road and will stop over in Middelburg for a performance
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) June 25, 2026
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