While many artists choose traditional mediums like paper, walls, and murals, Vincent Khoza has carved out a unique niche by painting stunning portraits on animal skins. Hailing from Sasolburg in the Free State and currently based in Bloemfontein, Vincent has been creating art since 2008.
Vincent’s artistic journey began at the Vaal University of Technology, where he honed his skills. He later worked as a tutor at the Fezile Dabi Art Centre, where he shared his knowledge with aspiring artists. His distinctive technique of drawing on animal skins was taught to him by his mentor, the late Bafana Khambule, who learned this form of art in Ethiopia. Inspired to carry on Bafana’s legacy, Vincent approaches his work with a fresh perspective and a commitment to uniqueness.
As a frequent traveler, Vincent sources animal skins in bulk, often purchasing them from sellers in Thaba Nchu and along the roadside in Calrens. He expresses, “I get inspired by the color of the skin and its tones. It inspires me to know what kind of portrait will be suitable for that animal skin. Any animal skin I can work on.”
Creating an artwork is a labor-intensive process for Vincent, taking about two weeks to complete. He begins by shaving the skin and preparing the area designated for the artwork, which can take one to two days. Once the surface is ready, he applies paint, allows it to dry, and then dives into the details of the portrait.
Vincent charges R25,000 for his artworks, which includes framing. His clientele primarily consists of art enthusiasts who appreciate the uniqueness of his work, particularly those who share a love for animals. Upon completion, he communicates with his clients via email to showcase his latest pieces.
Vincent frequently travels for exhibitions and pop-up events, where he showcases his captivating artworks. For those interested, Vincent can be contacted at 065 854 6011.
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