Kenneth reflects society through his wood sculptures

Sculptor Kenneth Nonyana (30) uses his artistic skills to express the daily struggles faced by residents. He hopes that his work will inspire ordinary people to cope and overcome the challenges of everyday life.

Nonyana is one of the gifted artists and crafters active on the Ribola Art Route. Last year, his art caught the attention of a national panel of judges, and he was selected as one of the top 40 finalists in the Vuleka Art Competition.

This resident of Tshivhuyuni village near Elim reckons that his inspiration comes from the internationally acclaimed local artist Thomas Kubayi. “I started off as a musician and then moved to learning art. At first, they taught me how to carve a fish. My mentor, Mr Kubayi, then requested me to design a human-like structure. Through his mentorship, I ended up making a nice art piece that fuelled my love for art,” he said.

Nonyana’s stunning wood-sculpture range includes a beautiful creation depicting an African woman carrying a bowl full of fruits. “I reflect the grind of life in my technique of filling in gaps with glue and wood-filings, leaving the finish rough and an unrefined surface,” he explained.

He said that his sculptures were raw and honest, with the purpose of sharing a specific message or story. “I connect to the deepest feelings of pain and rejection,” he said. His artwork is achingly real, and the inner turmoil of the human mind is etched in the faces of his creations. “Art expresses the emotions and struggles of the society it exists within,” he said.

Nonyana said that he often found inspiration when he saw ordinary activities, such as women collecting firewood for cooking. His wooden sculptures also carry the stories of tragedies and suffering, such as that caused by the Coronavirus pandemic.

He believes that artists should convey their knowledge to a new generation of sculptors and conducts classes for those interested in learning how to carve wood. “After five years, I want to see myself as one of the famous artists around Limpopo Province, with a big art studio. I’m willing to teach others with no fear. I love sharing my skills with other people,” he said.

Kenneth Nonyana can be followed on social-media platforms or contacted on 079 024 941.

Entertainment - Date: 20 February 2022

Thembi Siaga

Thembi Siaga started as an intern during 2021. He assisted with video photography and editing. He also produced numerous small documentaries, focusing on the Vhembe region and its people. Currently he works as a freelance journalist, covering stories in the Elim area.

Thembi studied at the Tshwane University of Technology, where he completed his diploma in Journalism in 2021.

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