Abraham Mkumba from Tshikota is widely praised for his beautiful African paintings that are not only appreciated by local art lovers but international tourists as well.
Originally from Masvingo, Zimbabwe, he relocated to South Africa in 2007 to seek a better life for himself and showcase his art, so he settled in Tshikota. Before long, people started noticing his extraordinary talent.
Mkumba has had a love of art since he was very young. When he was in Grade 4, back in 1988, an Australian tourist visited his school and saw a drawing by the young artist. The drawing was so exceptional that the tourist offered to buy it there and then. "I was encouraged to work more on my craft, but I was already in this industry, doing sign art painting for different schools in Zimbabwe, so I never studied beyond Grade 12," he said.
Most of Mkumba's work depicts traditional African life and how the local people live. "My clients love the African style and the stories my paintings convey. Many of them can even relate to them," he said.
He hopes to encourage emerging local artists. He said that his talent was not put to use just for his own gain, but also to teach young people who were interested in art. "I'm already helping children and people who are keen to learn the arts. I am also eager to receive assistance from others who are willing to help me."
Mkumba can be contacted on 064 335 5631.