David Tsoka

Biography

David Tsoka, born in 1992 and residing in Kwa-Thema, Springs, completed his Matric at Phulong Secondary School in 2010. Subsequently, he commenced his training at APS in 2011. During his third year in 2013, he had the privilege to collaborate on a Kentridge lino-carving project. Additionally, he worked as an intern at Artist Proof Studio in the Pro shop, assuming the role of a print technician for a year. Presently, David is dedicated to pursuing a career in art with a primary focus on painting.

 

Artist Statement

 My artwork revolves around the exploration of life's journey. From the age of five, I developed a habit for picking up and collecting various objects I encountered. Each item I collected was of significance for me, and through this habit, I began to unravel the world's mysteries. The allure of discovering new things every day always fueled my curiosity. In my artistic endeavors, I incorporate found and collected objects. Utilizing the internal mechanisms and close-ups of both mechanical and organic entities, I aim to depict the profound connection between my thoughts and the surrounding reality.

 To create my pieces, I directly carve onto the plate, starting with a black inked surface, which results in white lines after carving. Rather than sketching intricate details beforehand, I prefer to let the light areas guide my carving process, making spontaneous decisions as I progress. Thus, my approach involves carving from darkness to light, shaping shadows to reveal luminance, leading to multi-layered, textured, and abstract outcomes.

 

Artworks