Biography

Nkosana Nhlapo was born in the Free State province and currently resides in Johannesburg. He started his art career at Soyikwa Art Academy in Soweto and graduated from Artist Proof Studio in 2013. During his time at Artist Proof Studio, he participated in community outreach programs, commissions, and various special projects and applied for an internship program working as a gallery assistant and technician. Since 2010, has participated annually in the Johannesburg and Gauteng Carnival as a designer and a constructing artist creating Carnival floats and costumes. Nhlapo Has been participating in group exhibitions both Artist Proof Studio and within the art community.

Artist Statement

My work is based on guidelines, the search for focus that enhances growth, development, and personal belief. I am inspired by travel as a link to places, their history, and one’s personal experience to find meaning and understanding in the complexity of life. My work values moral fibers that define my existence.

The colorful atmospheric imagery in my work reflects the space where I think, plan, and dream. The reference to maps in my work are symbols for connection, development, guidance, and planned fragments of existence. I believe everything in life is linked to the past, present, and to future. Found objects and playing cards within my work are a physical reminder of the past life and the ancient mystical science of playing cards (cardology). The brown color, rust, and burned paper symbolize my experiences and the red lines reference the bitter, sweeter journey in life and as part of my daily commute.