Nandi Mabotja, a visual artist based in Centurion, utilises art as a means of expression, as she shared in an exclusive interview with Affirmations Media.
“For me, art is comparable to breathing. It encapsulates my existence within the dimensions of space and time. It acts as my sanctuary, allowing me to express my innermost feelings and articulate my ideas. Essentially, it serves as my therapeutic outlet. Indeed, art is my form of therapy,” Nandi said.
Originating from the beautiful village of Moletjie in the Limpopo province, Nandi contemplates her path as a visual artist and the importance it holds for her.
Nandi finds her inspiration in her deep affection for Black individuals and her dedication to portraying them through her artistic work. While her artistic journey commenced as a simple pastime, her desire to create something unique and extraordinary has driven her to this stage.
Art has a distinctive capacity to express meaning without relying on verbal communication, frequently conveying messages more deeply than one might expect.
Nandi’s works illustrate this concept, as she expresses her commitment to representing Black people, especially Black women, through her artistic pursuits.
Throughout history, the portrayal of Black people has faced numerous obstacles, often marked by negative stereotypes and a deficiency of authenticity. As a Black woman, Nandi feels a profound obligation to depict her community in diverse aspects of life genuinely.
She articulates her passion for art as a natural inclination, describing herself as an art enthusiast, or at least aspiring to be one. Nandi underscores the significance of not placing undue pressure on herself, recognising that she remains on a path of learning.
Nandi perceives herself as an eternal learner, keen to engage in the artistic journey, which ignites her passion for art. She takes pride in her self-taught status and acknowledges that fear is a fundamental part of life, including the artistic domain.
Embracing new experiences and dedicated to lifelong learning, Nandi is determined not to let fear obstruct her creative expression. Although she possesses an intrinsic and reflective nature, she has learned to face her fears by allowing her artwork to convey her thoughts. Following the positive feedback from her public exhibitions, she has been inspired to push her boundaries further and create exceptional portraits.
At present, Nandi is developing a piece that she has graciously shared with us, and we are delighted to showcase it on her behalf.
