At just 28 years old, Johannesburg-based artist Bonginkosi Liyo Mkhatshwa has already carved out a powerful space in the South African art scene, earning recognition for his unique approach to mixed-media art. His work, characterized by its innovative use of repurposed water containers, honors the resilience and optimism found in South Africa’s rural communities. Mkhatshwa’s latest piece, a diptych titled Unity & Innovative Water Carrier, is part of his ongoing exploration of rural life, depicting both the strength and the beauty of rural areas.
Here, he shares insights into his artistic journey, the inspiration behind his work, and his experience as a finalist in the Sasol New Signatures Art Competition.
Tell us what your reaction was when you received the news that your work had been selected?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: I felt recognized, and it gives me hope and strength to continue to create more and be more creative in the future. I felt like my voice and that of the voiceless is heard.
Is this the first time you have entered the competition? If so, why, and if not, how many times, and why is this competition an important one for you?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: Yes, it is my first time. Sasol New Signatures Art Competition is one of the best and most recognized emerging art promoters in South Africa. I did not waste time to apply the minute I saw the post and the opportunity to upgrade my artistic biography and CV.
Tell us a little about your artistic journey up until the point of entering Sasol New Signatures 2024?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: My artistic journey began when I used to see my uncle’s drawings at a young age, and I was exposed to drawing. After my matric, I went to pursue art as a career at Vaal University of Technology, where I got exposed to more knowledge about art and obtained my Diploma (2021), Advanced Diploma (Cum Laude, 2022), and my Postgrad Diploma in Fine Art in 2023. During my time at varsity, I took part in the following group exhibitions: Commemoration of Dr. Peko Portrait exhibition in 2020 at VUT, University Art vs Kasi art exhibition at Sharpeville Art Centre in 2020, Thami Mnyele Top 100 in 2022, University of Pretoria exhibition in 2023, and the 2024 Turbine Art Fair. Furthermore, in 2022 and 2023, I successfully participated in Art Bank of SA art acquisition and art creation, and now I am one of the Sasol New Signatures winners!
Who has had the biggest influence on your career as an artist to date?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: First, it was my uncle, then Gilbert Maepa (artist and mentor), and Nkululeko Khumalo (artist and lecturer).
Tell us a little about why you created the piece you submitted?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: I created both Unity and Traditional Innovative Water Carrier to create awareness and celebrate the daily experiences of rural life—moments of success, joy, love, and friendship found despite adversity. Using acrylic paint and ink on water containers serves as a tribute to the rural way of life and challenges stereotypes, showcasing the beauty and strength of rural communities. My body of work was created to emphasize the rural human spirit, showcasing the native resilience that drives individuals to confront and overcome challenges such as water scarcity, load shedding, and the instability of the rural education system.
Tell us about your preferred mediums and why?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: I am a mixed-media artist. I am obsessed with charcoal, acrylic paint, and ink on different surfaces, such as brown paper, water containers, or other found objects. With mixed media, there’s no limitation; it makes me think out of the box to expand my creativity and create amazing artworks.
When people view your work, what reaction/response are you hoping to create?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: I want my audience to connect and relate with their own experiences through my work in a sense of love, joy, and unity, and have a positive perception about rural areas.
Why do you think your work was chosen as one of the winning works?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: I believe it evokes curiosity and it’s unique. The surfaces used and the techniques are the ‘new signature’ that the competition was hoping to get.
Which South African artists do you admire and why?
[BONGINKOSI LIYO MKHATSHWA]: Thato Motane and Gilbert Maepa. Although they are emerging artists like I am, I admire their working techniques. I also admire Nelson Makamo and Phillemon Hlungwani. Both Makamo and Hlungwani have influenced my creations as we share a similar background of coming from rural areas.
Bonginkosi’s work is a testament to the strength and optimism within South Africa’s rural communities, creating a lasting impact on viewers while celebrating the spirit of resilience that drives his artistry forward. With a bright future ahead, he continues to be a voice for those who embody hope in the face of daily challenges.
Featured Image(s) & Interview Source: Supplied
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