PATRICK SITHOLE

Patrick Sithole (b. 1970) grew up in Kwa-Thema near Springs in South Africa. In 1999 he obtained a diploma in commercial art at Intec College and then joined the FUBA Academy of Arts at the Federated Union of Black Artists Arts Centre.

His main inspiration came from his uncle, the renowned sculptor Lucas Sithole, who supported him by buying him art materials and encouraged him to draw every day.

“He advised me to stick to my style and not to listen to anyone who suggested that I change it,” says Patrick.

“As I continued my journey as an artist, I started selling my artwork in the streets, did sign writing for local shops, hair salons and taverns in my township until eventually I landed my first solo exhibition at the ABSA Gallery in 2007.