Biography

Born in 1998 Thomo village, Limpopo. Hlavutelo Ngobeni was encouraged from a young age, particularly by her school teacher to follow her passion for the arts. She matriculated in 2017 and she went to artist proof studio in 2018 to study printmaking. In 2019 her works featured in FNB art fair, in 2020 she had a graduate group show called I/24= (UN)MASKED. In 2021 her works featured at Turbine art fair, Strauss & Co (Tutu foundation projects), FNB art Joburg, Absa exhibition and ILRIG Calendar 2021. In 2022 her works featured at Turbine art fair GRAD SHOW (AT ODDS). And her works featured recently in a female show exhibition Latitude. Currently  living in Johannesburg where she practices her art and works as assistance printer in the pro shop at Artist Proof Studio.

 Artist Statement

In my work, I reference cultural Objects that are indigenous to our traditional way of living. I grew up in a Xitsonga tribe were my grandmother taught me how to make these pots out of clay and the process of strengthening them. These pots play a crucial role during rituals and ceremonies and also in everyday necessities around the home especially the storing of water. My grandmother taught Me at an early age that laziness bears no fruit and the is meaning in working hard and my works Manifestation of her teachings. My works evolves with each body of work that I create but the message remains “protect and safeguard the knowledge of our forefathers and you will never forget who you are”. I feel very privileged to have this knowledge and be the custodian of my traditions.