Meet the South African artists who dominated BIC’s Art Master Africa Contest

Two South African artists have won top spots in BIC’s Art Master Africa competition, which celebrated artistic talent from Africa and the Middle East. The event, held at the Gallery Art Bar in Illovo, invited artists to interpret the theme: Ubuntu Together, to illustrate the African philosophy of shared humanity, unity, and collective strength through art. The winners received their cheques amid a vibrant gathering of creatives and art enthusiasts. The contest aimed to illustrate the strength and beauty of collective harmony, showcasing the spirit of ubuntu.

Read more: Art meets history: a bold exploration of resilience at The Blue House

Raised by the Community. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

Among over 6 000 remarkable entries, South African artists Zolani Makibi and Nhlakanipho Mkhize were awarded top honours. Makibi claimed second place with his piece: Raised by the Community, winning a cash prize of $1 500. His artwork, shaped like a vinyl record, is a powerful representation of the community that supported him after his mother’s passing. “The hands in the piece represent those who were there for me,” Makibi explained. A musician as well, known as Sox Masokisi, Makibi uniquely blended his passions for art and music to communicate the role of community in his journey.

Mkhize, the third-place winner, was awarded $500 for his piece: Brother’s Keeper. The artwork illustrates two hands, symbolising one person lifting another, a vivid representation of the ubuntu spirit. Raised in a rural area, Mkhize drew on his life experiences, noting, “Growing up, respect, kindness, and helping one another were values that held us together. This piece is a reflection of that – of people lifting each other despite hardships.”

Nhlakanipho Mkhize and his art piece: Brother’s Keeper. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

Also read: Celebrate African heritage at Rosebank Art and Craft Market

Both artists shared advice for aspiring creators. Makibi encouraged them to pursue authenticity, stressing, “Be yourself. Don’t try to replicate what’s already out there. Instead, create something new and different.” Mkhize emphasised the importance of respect and humility, saying, “Respect takes you further than education alone. Humility will open doors that talent alone may not.”

Brother’s Keeper. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

The Art Master Africa competition continues to serve as a vibrant platform for emerging artists, celebrating the rich diversity of African cultures. Through this bi-annual contest, BIC provides a canvas for creatives to showcase their stories and talents using the iconic ballpoint pen. As the 2024 BIC Art Master Africa edition draws to a close, it’s clear that artists across the continent are not just creating images, they’re building bridges, promoting unity, and capturing the heartbeat of Africa through art.

Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.

Related article: Creativity unleashed at Gioia Trattoria’s sip-and-paint evening

At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here.

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}