Nelson Makamo uses his art to amplify the voices of the children from his birthplace, Limpopo, South Africa's northernmost province.
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.
Artist: Nelson Makamo
