Tivani’s Mabulele’s art captures the eye

A 29-year-old visual artist from Waterval, Tivani Ernest Mabulele, is slowly but surely getting the recognition he deserves. His current collection is titled Childhood Memories and is on display at August House in Doornfontein, Johannesburg.

August House is an exclusive art building that houses more than 50 contemporary independent, pan-African artists. Since it was opened in 2006, its walls have been graced by the works of some of the most talented local artists.

Mabulele’s paintings caught the eyes of art lovers in 2019 when he was selected as one of the top 25 contestants in the State of Art for People's Choice Awards. He ended up in second place in this prestigious competition. “Later that year, I was part of the top 100 artworks selected for the Thami Mnyele Fine Art Awards,” he said.

Tivani’s vibrant and bold works of art include a painting that portrays a ballerina’s emotional struggles while dancing. “Artistically I am motivated by my surroundings and my daily encounters with people and the different problems they’re facing. Through encouragement from them, I started learning independently,” he said.

Mabulele has never been to an art school, but this did not deter him from following his passion. He explained that growing up in a community where art is not viewed as a career did not make him forsake his dreams. “My upbringing does not relate much to my work, but I am inspired to teach and introduce the art world to the people from my village,” he said.

For Mabulele, art remains a vehicle to express universal emotions. “It’s a revelation of what I believe the world will become. A world where both cultures (western and African culture) will coexist. I dream of a world that’s united,” he said.

He believes that his work will illuminate the margins and make societal changes. “Art helps me vent and speak at the highest level possible without using words. (It helps me) to address different issues with each brushstroke to touch my audience without saying a word,” he said.

For more about Tivani, you can visit his Instagram page at @tivani_mabulele or reach him on 081 387 4778.

Entertainment - Date: 05 March 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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