Upcycled art
100 Emerging Artists in South Africa by Art With Heart
Aug
Art by Shaunez Benting
Shaunez Benting, a visual artist from Cape Flats, creates artwork that celebrates the joyful memories of his childhood against the backdrop of 1970s District Six and the Cape Flats. His work aligns with Cape Town’s Culture and Heritage initiative, reflecting the rich cultural history of the area. Although he has not yet been appointed as a cultural ambassador, Benting’s art remains a powerful tribute to the region’s vibrant legacy
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Art, fashion, and a bit of dabbling in spirituality and the rave scene. Meet Kayf, a pop-surrealist artist whose work delves deep into the subconscious, creating pieces that resonate on a profound level. Specializing in art that “burrows underneath one’s skin,” Kayf’s creations invite viewers into a world where reality blurs with the dreamscape. I’ve always wanted to live stream painting with a techno or drum and bass DJ as a co-host. Imagine the scene: as the DJ mixes a set, the tempo and energy of the music infuse the artwork, guiding the brushstrokes and influencing the style in real-time. The synergy between sound and visual art would create a dynamic, immersive experience, where each beat echoes through the canvas.
A 16-year-old self-taught artist with Autism has channeled their experiences into a meaningful project—a painted horse statue set for auction to benefit Iris House Children’s Hospice. Despite challenges such as not being able to read or write and facing bullying, art has become their emotional outlet. They also run an online store with their mom’s help and visit schools to share their journey, promoting the message that it’s OK to be different and that success is achievable with the right support.
“Untitled” –Oil on Canvas- This painting presents a vibrant, abstract portrayal of an African woman with an afro. Her face is brought to life with bold, sweeping strokes of bright colors, creating a dynamic and energetic appearance. Her hair is depicted in a textured, stippled style using black and white dots, giving it a rich, voluminous quality. She is dressed in a white top with black outlines, complemented by large, golden earrings. The overall style emphasizes texture and color, focusing on expressive details rather than realistic representation.
Rita Pape
Discover an artist who, with unapologetic eccentricity, uses photography guided by intuition and a carefree spirit. Their diverse body of work has been featured in exhibitions, including the current PHOTO-synthesised at What the Fig Food and Art in Magaliesberg until September. After retiring at the end of 2023, they now roam South Africa in a van, embracing a nomadic lifestyle that allows full artistic freedom. They’re also exploring multi-media to take their photography to new creative heights.
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A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever.” This exquisite oil painting truly embodies the essence of this timeless quote. It captures the elegance and grace of a bygone era, and would be a stunning addition to any home.Imagine this masterpiece as the focal point of your living space. Its beauty has the power to inspire and uplift. Measuring 61 by 82
robzlipner
“She Is The Voice of Change”is a powerful tribute to Women’s Day in South Africa, celebrated on August 9th. This painting embodies the strength of women, with each element carefully chosen: the proteas symbolize femininity, the tear signifies global abuse against women, the earrings reflect a proud South African identity, and the headdress represents our diverse rainbow nation. Inspired by Tretchikoff’s “Balinese Lady,” this artwork is my most meaningful piece to date, celebrating both resilience and heritage. I hope it resonates with you as deeply as it does with me.
itsnonka
“A Seat at the Table” is a profound tribute to the unwavering spirit and inherent worth of women, emphasizing their right to be among decision-makers and visionaries. By transcending social barriers, this artwork challenges entrenched structures and encourages women to assert their place, recognize their potential, and influence the future with their unique perspectives. Through evocative imagery, it calls women to rise, speak, and claim their rightful position, celebrating the transformative power of women’s voices and the boundless potential that emerges when they are empowered.
M A S A K U
“Exploring Body Dysmorphia through Lazer Engraving: Tony Maake’s Artistic Inquiry” Tony Maake is delving into the complexities of Body Dysmorphia through her innovative use of lazer engraving in sculpture. Her work employs mirrors—one tinted and one clear—to create a reflective dialogue with the subject, primarily focusing on female individuals. This series invites subjects to confront and embrace their perceived flaws as part of a transformative artistic process. By systematically highlighting and filtering these imperfections, Maake explores the tension between external perceptions and internal realities, emphasizing that the pursuit of “perfection” is an ever-elusive ideal. Her art brings flaws to the forefront, celebrating them as integral to the human experience.
“Moon Dust” is an emotional art piece that reflects the pain of heartache, from the loss of a mother to broken relationships and lost friendships. Despite these struggles, the artwork symbolizes resilience and the strength to rebuild and love again. The central heart is crafted from mashed paper and recycled egg trays, painted once dried, while the broken mirror pieces around it represents the shattered fragments of the heart. This piece embodies the journey of mending and learning to embrace love anew despite past wounds.
Richard Marthinus
“Khoe Khoe Rock” This artwork presents an interpretation of KhoeKhoe rock art, rendered on stone and mounted in a box crafted from repurposed wood. The KhoeKhoe and other ancient tribes of Southern Africa once inhabited the area around the Sweet Water River, which is now known as Observatory in Cape Town. This piece reflects their deep connection to the land and their rich cultural heritage
Jonospaintings
Jono works in cyber security during the day, paints in evenings and weekends. He’s technical and quiet person and always comes up with this fun colorful naive art. He has characters that come through again and again in many pieces, Such as ES Cargo the snail who loves to smoke. But also goes on adventures, there is a lot of humor in his art, and often many fun details. Jono likes to use Acryla Gouache, for it’s vivid colors.
Lungile Nduna, an artist from South Africa’s Eastern Cape, specializes in portraits that reflect how he perceives the people around him. His latest piece, an untitled portrait of jazz musician Tumi Pheko, captures the enchanting, dreamlike atmosphere of Tumi’s music. Lungile embraces the creative process, allowing each piece to unfold naturally, aiming to experience his work with fresh eyes every time.
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The artist’s work delves deeply into the themes of sustainability and mental health, using art as both a catalyst for change and a means of expressing personal pain. Through their creations, they highlight the imbalance in how much we take from the environment without giving back, emphasizing the neglected care that Mother Nature requires. The artist strongly believes that the environment we grow up in profoundly influences who we become as adults, shaping our perspectives and actions. Their art aims to bring attention to these critical issues, fostering a deeper connection to our planet and mental well-being.
This piece portrays a strong woman who embodies the delicate balance of life while being nurturing. Her tattoos tell the story of her unique struggles, each one a testament to the challenges she has faced. Her toned physique reflects her commitment to self-care, a necessity for maintaining mental clarity and strength in the face of life’s demands.
Larry, an artist from Cape Town, South Africa, has been passionate about art from a young age. Inspired by his late uncle, who was also an artist but unable to share his work, and guided by his mother, Larry has dedicated his life to art. His preferred mediums are charcoal, graphite, and alcohol markers. Larry’s greatest love is Realism, drawn to capturing the essence of life through facial expressions and body language. He finds profound meaning in recreating these moments and conveying the messages they hold. For Larry, art is a way to showcase the beauty of creation and share the inner world of his mind with the world
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Restored Grace“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds”-Psalm 147:3. The artwork titled Restored Grace by Bradley Bailey exemplifies the healing power of grace. Through mixed media, Bailey captures the essence of wholeness, refreshment, and restoration. The piece reflects the divine grace that heals, preserves, and nurtures us, embodying the journey from brokenness to a state of restored vitality and prosperity.
“Belonging, Blinded Choices”This work explores the concept of belonging through the lens of decision-making. It examines how our choices—whether made by ourselves or influenced by our parents and ancestors—affect our affiliations with various groups and situations. The artwork focuses on three key aspects: spirituality, gender identification, and values/customs. It illustrates how choices shape our lives, impacting our sense of belonging in both positive and negative ways. Through this body of work, the artist reflects on the profound influence of choice on our personal and collective experiences.
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SMILE “Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful.” this piece, a captivating charcoal drawing, celebrates the power of a smile to enhance the beauty of life. Created by a dedicated artist from Bloemfontein, this black-and-white artwork exemplifies the artist’s hard work and passion. The piece serves as a reminder of how a simple smile can brighten our world, making every moment more special.
Paul Bokvel Smit
“MYSTIFY ENCHANTMENT,” captures the essence of connection through layers of asynchronous lines. Imagine we all possess a universal clock, ticking away in harmony with others when we’re together. In these moments, our clocks align, whether briefly or for a lifetime. I represent this synchronicity as parallel lines, moving in perfect unison.
Haphazard lines reflect our connection with everything, even when out of sync.In honor of their late sister, who lived in Walvis Bay, Namibia, the artist created three paintings inspired by Sossusvlei, Namibia. She had asked them to paint something for her, but at that time, the artist had given up on art. These pieces mark a return to their craft, fulfilling a promise and honoring her memory.
oddartguyMeet Motsi, also known as the oddartguy—a 22-year-old artist in his fourth year of creating captivating art. Motsi’s style is a unique blend of anime and realism, drawing inspiration from artists like RossDraws and Jean-Michel Basquiat. For Motsi, art is a powerful means of self-expression, a way to breathe life into new creations. Collaborating with Motsi is not just a partnership; it’s a step forward in his journey to achieve his artistic goals and dreams.
“Peniaphobia”This artwork explores the visceral and emotional impact of peniaphobia, the fear of poverty. Throughout history, artists have tackled themes of wealth and poverty, each piece reflecting societal values and personal fears. This chapter analyzes both contemporary and historical artworks to reveal how visual representations can evoke empathy and offer insights into the profound anxieties surrounding poverty.
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A3-sized limited edition signed prints, unframed, are available. These are an exploration of realities encountered during the artist’s travels. Oil paintings can also be commissioned.
Distorted Portraits that showcase strong, vivid colors and intricate lines forming shapes to evoke a fragmented reality. This series delves into the darker aspects of our world but seeks to fill the voids with vibrant expression. Through this art, I aim to create a new way of life, finding beauty in every corner because I believe that we are all kings and queens, each with the potential to be unleashed.
Grant Webb
This is Grant. One of Grant’s projects involves taking a rusted little van on journeys to visit various places and people. Grant shares these adventures on his Facebook page, Tripping with Betty, where he combines photography, storytelling, and creative writing. He’s currently working on compiling a book of his first year’s trips and visits, capturing the essence of these experiences and the unique individuals he’s met along the way.
Sylvanie Spangenberg
What Lies Beneath? Graphite, acrylic, textured paste-explores the layers of self we reveal or conceal in a sometimes unforgiving society. The artist uses flowers to represent the polished facade we show the world, while a textured, blemished portrait symbolizes the vulnerable, imperfect self we share only with those we trust. At the core, beneath all layers, lies what truly feeds the soul—a flower.
Muziwakhe Mzamani Phiri
Excitementis a reminder to embrace the thrill of anticipation and let it fuel your dreams. It signals that you’re on the brink of something amazing. Let this excitement propel you forward, ignite your passion, and believe in the incredible things you can achieve when you’re truly excited about life. Paintings are inspired by nature and it’s surroundings and what we experience as people in our daily life, victories and memories.
Imagine the title Kaleidoscope of Culture reflecting the vibrant diversity and beauty of African heritage. Just as a kaleidoscope blends colorful fragments into a harmonious pattern, you see this painting bring together three women from different cultures, united in their shared humanity. The title invites you to celebrate the ever-changing, dynamic nature of cultural identity, where diverse traditions and experiences come together, creating something beautiful and unified. As you gaze at the piece, you feel the rich tapestry of African heritage coming to life, a reminder of the strength found in diversity.
Before We Were We, by The Alchemist, explores the essence of existence before identities and relationships took shape. Through the use of acrylic and airbrush on super wood, the artist creates a visual narrative that invites viewers to reflect on the origins of self and connection, a time before the collective “we” came into being. Acrylic, Airbrush on Super Wood
This painting, I Should Be Fine, is part of a series titled Solace in Reflection, where the artist delves into self-portraits that capture moments of introspection throughout 2023. Through this series, the artist explores both internal and external environments, observing how they navigate these spaces—whether at home or out with friends. A key realization that emerged is the artist’s quiet nature around others, paired with a deep desire to contribute to conversations within their social circles. The figures in these paintings reflect a sense of being overwhelmed and paralyzed, conveyed through their nonchalant expressions. The series invites viewers to witness this personal journey of self-awareness and reflection.
The drawing, Vepò—which means “water” in Greek—was completed early this year, marking a significant moment in the artist’s life. Begun after receiving their Grade 11 report last year, this piece symbolizes the final year of high school and the conclusion of a pivotal chapter. Through Vepò, the artist reflects on the flow of time and the transition from one stage of life to the next, much like water flowing from one place to another.
This enchanting painting captures a young fairy in a moment of pure bliss, enjoying her afternoon by the river as she plays a melody on her flute. The music she creates brings magic to life all around her, filling the scene with a calm and serene atmosphere. The painting radiates a sense of peace, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the fairy’s tranquil world.
This abstract art piece, created on an A2 canvas, is a gradient painting combined with a dust pan pour technique. Upon closer inspection, the texture reveals remnants of an initial artwork that didn’t go according to plan, adding depth and a sense of “more than meets the eye.” The artist has chosen not to name this piece, feeling that doing so would place unnecessary limitations on its interpretation. The absence of a title invites viewers to find their own meaning within the layers of color and texture.
imagine yourself as a visual artist rooted in the serene landscapes of Bulwer, KwaZulu-Natal South. Your artistic journey began with a deep study of theater craft, which laid the foundation for your creative expression. Over the years, you’ve honed your skills, even working as a book illustrator for publishers, bringing stories to life with your unique touch.The mountains and valleys of the southern Drakensberg, which surround your rural home, inspire much of your work. These natural wonders fuel your creativity, guiding your hand as you work with acrylic on canvas. Green landscapes captivate your heart, and flowers bring you endless joy, both of which are beautifully reflected in your art. Each piece you create is a tribute to the vibrant beauty of your surroundings, a celebration of the nature that nurtures your spirit.
Marlize Bachfischer is an artist whose journey began with a passion for drawing and painting, which she pursued through school and showcased in two exhibitions. Her artistic focus is on revealing unique and unseen perspectives, drawing from within. Marlize works with various mediums, with a special fondness for charcoals and acrylics.
As you stand before this painting, you’re enveloped in a sense of calm and serenity. You can almost feel the artist’s journey, as they gazed around, painting without a clear destination in mind, allowing the image to unfold naturally. The uncertainty of where the piece would take them or how it would end up only adds to the tranquility you experience. The painting, sized at A4 (210×297mm or 8.3×11.7″), is crafted with mixed media on paper. The intimate scale draws you in, inviting you to explore the details and the quiet beauty that emerged from the artist’s unplanned, intuitive process.
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In the dim light, the subject’s glossy eyes gleam with a blend of pain and determination, mirroring the deep, primal power that emanates from his core. This fierce strength is portrayed with a raw intensity that captures the essence of his inner resolve. Leo Determinatio is a powerful representation of strength and perseverance, reflecting the profound, inherent power within.
Venus embodies purity and innocence, capturing the playful yet nervous essence of a being that is not quite a child but close enough. As an artist specializing in pet portraits, I use a mix of media, including ink, fine-tune pen, and watercolor, to capture the unique essence of these beloved animals. My work aims to immortalize the special bond between pets and their owners, evoking a sense of harmony reminiscent of Eden, where animals and humans lived together in peace.
“Skins Or Cuts” explores the duality of movement in relation to the idiosyncratic nature of the body as a mechanism for time. Using acrylics, podge and oils, the painting mystifies the layers that line up how our memories melt through our present moments, almost the same way our blood fights to stay beneath our skin. The shiny texture of this artwork and isolated areas of cold tones in the midst of warm, dark hue, work together to represent all the ways in which these moments we experience create junctures in the glimpse of the past. Making time seep through any pause. A warped reality that grounds us inside a picnoleptic gaze for what might come next
“The Man in White” is a contrast against the slogan “The Man in Black” as Johnny Cash was known as a musician and actor. His calm bass-baritone voice was the inspiration for this piece. Listing to the Highway men’s stories and gospel guided me through my life and journey. The painting has become a bit of a “Travelling Johnny Cash” painted in a small-town Dispatch during my sabbatical and soul-searching travels from the beautiful Franschhoek down the garden route through Tisikama and Knysna to the in January – February 2020.
neomotahingoane“It doesn’t have a description cause everyone can tell what’s happening there”
Traci Scerri“A River Runs Through It” (acrylic on canvas, 55x45x4cm) is a fluid pearl pour painting in one of Traci’s favourite metallic earthy palettes. It encapsulates the idea of duality – the dark side vs the light side – with the central river representing the continuous flow of life despite the choices we make. As a South African artist, she subscribes to the concept of ‘Local is Lekker’ and uses only local paints and products to create her work. Traci hosts paint pouring workshops and events at her home studio in Johannesburg and has even taught as far afield as Wilderness in the Cape. She publishes tutorials and reels on her Instagram and YouTube channel @traci_art
Munei MambilaAs you stand before this painting, a wave of calm and serenity washes over you. You can almost sense the artist’s journey, as they painted without a clear destination, letting the image reveal itself naturally. This openness, this willingness to embrace the unknown, only deepens the tranquility you feel.The piece, sized at A4 (210×297mm or 8.3×11.7″), is created with mixed media on paper. Its intimate scale draws you closer, inviting you to lose yourself in the details and appreciate the quiet beauty that emerged from the artist’s intuitive, unplanned process.
