4me4you had the opportunity to visit Rise Art Gallery, where the spotlight was on the artist Nelson Makamo - “IN SEARCH OF INTERNAL JOY“.
MY PROCESS
Nelson Makamo uses his art to amplify the voices of the children from his birthplace, Limpopo, South Africa's northernmost province.
“IN SEARCH OF INTERNAL JOY“.
Through various expressive mediums such as acrylic, print, watercolour, and charcoal, Makamo creates vivid and heartfelt portraits that capture the essence of childhood. His work defies common stereotypes, offering a fresh perspective on African youth.
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Makamo’s art focuses on the radiance and hope of African children, rather than portraying them as victims of poverty, a theme often mistakenly associated with rural African youth.
In works like Golden Moments, he highlights the joy and beauty of childhood, evoking a sense of eternal optimism. This approach earned him a feature in TIME magazine, which described his work as “The Art of Optimism.” Makamo’s portraits aim to shift the global perception of African children, showcasing their strength, determination, and resilience.
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His distinctive use of mixed media and unique mark-making techniques sets his style apart. A particularly special aspect of his work is his frequent depiction of his 12-year-old cousin, Mapule Maoto, whose presence adds warmth and intimacy to his creations.