
More than just a place for art lovers to immerse themselves in creative beauty, The Gallery at Ballito Lifestyle Centre is also a platform for local artists to showcase their talent
Thandazani is an optimistic and hardworking, self-taught contemporary figurative and impressionist artist.
He discovered his talent at the age of 6. In primary school he used to draw cartoon characters of his classmates and teachers. He worked at a shoe factory in Zimbabwe from year 2002-2007 as a shoe designer. He left work when he felt like it was limiting his creativity and he decided to pursue his calling, following his dreams. In 2008 he started painting professionally. Thandazani’s work is based on the dying cultures of Africa, aimed at reminding people of their roots.
Thandazani’s first achievement was winning 3rd prize at a competition, Intwasa art festival in Bulawayo in the year 2013, competing with established artists and professionals. He was then commissioned by the National gallery of Zimbabwe to paint a prominent personality, The legendary musician Oliver Mtukudzi. He moved to South Africa full time in 2016, working in a home studio in Johannesburg. He has sold his work at some galleries in SA and Zimbabwe. He was commissioned to do paintings that were auctioned to raise funds for Gaithiga children’s orphanage in Kenya by an organisation in USA, MAPCW Missions in November 2018.
He wishes to create awareness on social issues and make a difference, raising funds for disadvantaged children all over the world with his work.