Justice Mugwena

Artist since 2003
"I was born in 1981. I passed matric (with exemption) at the Lishavhana High School in 2000 and later attended the University of Technology (then the Vaal Triangle Technikon) partially completing a course in Mechanical Engineering. I started my career as an artist early, developing my talents from childhood although my career as an artist started in 2003 when I learnt woodcarving (sculpture) at a place called Lesheba Wilderness, where I spent three weeks sponsored by the De Beers Company. I came back home and worked as an artist, selling my work at Thomas Kubayi's studio."

Ambitions
"Thomas inspired me in many ways. He taught me tricks and easier ways to sculpt. I sold several pieces of my art to people from different countries. My piece called 'Armchair' was sold to the University of Limpopo. With my sculpture 'Mermaid' (height 3.5m) I entered the Sasol New Signatures Competition in 2005. I plan to establish my own studio in Limpopo for my artwork to be displayed in. I enjoy being an artist and promise to stay an artist".