Tsietsi Matubako, a talented fine artist known for his diverse range of subjects and mural themes portrayed on canvas, has a keen eye for detail and a mastery of various painting techniques. Matubako creates visually captivating artworks that convey powerful messages.
Born and bred in Huhudi, Vryburg, in 1969, he has always had creative bones to tell stories through fine arts. His drive and love for Fine Arts made him pursue a career in Arts at then Natal Technikon, now the University of KwaZulu Natal.
''I had a passion for art at a very young age, and a portfolio of my work as a self-taught artist got me accepted at Natal Technikon after completing my matric at Bopaganang High School. While at Technikon, I was considered one of the best students and given a scholarship to further my studies at Wolverhampton University in England. Later I got a fellowship to stay in the Netherlands from 1994-1996.’’
"I am mainly a painter with various subjects on canvas and murals,’’ said Tsietsi.
Canvas is a durable plain-woven fabric usually made from cotton or hemp yarn. It is used to create crafts and paintings. Many of the world’s most iconic paintings were made on canvas.
His paintings often touch on social, cultural, and ethical issues, reflecting his profound moral responsibility as an artist. Through his art, Matubako addresses topics such as human rights, environmental conservation, and social justice, using his brushstrokes to provoke thought and engage viewers in meaningful conversations.
Matubako's artwork is known for its striking imagery and evocative storytelling, from vivid landscapes and portraits to thought-provoking abstract compositions. His paintings capture the intricacies of the human experience and society, inviting viewers to contemplate the deeper meaning behind his art.
As a painter with a wide range of subject matters and a strong moral compass, Tsietsi Matubako's art reflects his unique perspective and artistic voice, making him a notable figure in fine art.
Tsietsi says he is a professional artist with collections in museums and art galleries here and abroad.
''I am currently working from home on certain commissions and projects. Occasionally, I help at Mmabana Cultural Centre with special projects. Major projects I worked on and those closest to my heart are mural paintings in Durban, Amsterdam (Netherlands) exhibitions in KwaZulu-Natal, North West and elsewhere overseas,’’ commented Tsietsi.
He says there is a need for the South African government Department responsible for Arts and Culture to assist or support artists like him.
''The Department of Arts and Culture only help on special occasions as an entertainer rather than a professional, exploited rather than valued.''
'My advice to aspiring artists is to be persistent and follow their passion. Do not stick around but search for better pastures elsewhere in South Africa, and the rest will follow. Read and study hard. You cannot be a self-taught artist without education. Do not work in isolation, interact with other artists and galleries. Fight to be a star, a guru, and the rest will follow. Travel the world,’’ concluded Tsietsi.
