Brian Luvhengo, who also goes by the name Vander the Artist, is a gifted young artist from Nzhelele Matanda. The 19-year-old's remarkable talent lies in drawing realistic pencil portraits, earning him much respect from art lovers.
Brian has had a true passion for art since he was a young boy. He was later in his life motivated by one of the local artists, Fulufhelo Mawela, known as Stiger the Artist.
After he had finished Grade 12 at Tshamakwatini Secondary School in 2021, Brian took a gap year and rediscovered his passion for drawing, which he said had started to dwindle a little during his secondary school years. He is currently studying art and design at the Tshwane North College.
He said that when he had first started to share his artwork on Facebook, he had been amazed by the encouragement and feedback he had received. "I was pleasantly surprised. I did not anticipate such a positive response, and I gained many new clients," he said.
Despite having already gained attention on social media for his impressive skills, Brian believes that he has much more to achieve. "I still believe that there is something special about the human touch that makes art so valuable and important in society," he said.
Brian said he had made use of many YouTube tutorials to refine his artistic abilities. He especially loves doing people's portraits – whether they are just normal, everyday people or famous people, although he paints as well. He said he would like to start experimenting with painting clothes and shoes. "My ultimate goal is to own an art gallery one day and have my artwork featured on television and in magazines. I hope to become one of South Africa's renowned artists. I will not rest until I make this happen," said the determined young man.
Brian "Vander the Artist" Luvhengo can be reached on 079 866 0769.