Artist Gift Dlamini works with materials such as newspaper and coffee to form unique and striking pieces.
Originally from KwaMashu, Gift began illustrating when he was just 14 years old. He believes art is a gift that was given to him by his ancestors and God. “I’ve always wanted to be an artist as it’s the one thing that comes naturally to me,” he says. He takes much of his inspiration from the environment in which he lives, as well as the social issues he sees and experiences. “My work has transformed over time,” he explains. “I began by just drawing people’s faces and wildlife, and through my education and other influences I began to focus more on social ills and issues around women and their challenges in modern society.”
Gift describes his creative process as simple – he mostly uses acrylics, which he paints onto newspaper. “I started using this method at an early age when I couldn’t afford to buy canvas or professional papers, and I still use the same method today,” he says. He also paints with coffee, an idea which struck him simply because he was in a creative mood while enjoying a cup one day. Nature and people keep him inspired, and he is driven by a desire to continue learning and developing as an artist.
Gift has had the opportunity to work on a range of exciting projects over the years. One of his personal highlights was being included in the eThekwini Mural Project in 2019. He also enjoyed working on a mosaic at the Dr Pixley KaSeme Hospital in KwaMashu, where he was nominated to design the murals in the children’s wards.
Last year, he was approached by Jane Digby, the owner of The Gallery at Ballito Lifestyle Centre, to collaborate on a mural at Japanese restaurant Yori Oki. He has exhibited his work at The Gallery multiple times, and most recently took part in the Vibrations exhibition there. He spends some of his time demonstrating drawing and paint mixing techniques to other artists.
Driven by a desire to create, Gift has some exciting plans for the future, including a project at The Pearls in Umhlanga, a design for the Whale Bone Pier and another exhibition at The Gallery. “It would really please me for people to come and see my latest work and current influences,” he says. “I would love to grow as a young South African artist.”
Details: Gift Dlamini, IG: @isiphiwo_art
The Gallery: The Studios, Ballito Lifestyle Centre, 072 245 8691, IG: thegallerylifestyle FB: thegalleryinfo
