Mzwakhe Mbatha
Names: Mbatha, Mzwakhe
Born: 1935, Umnini Holiday Camp, Natal (now Kwa-Zulu Natal), South Africa
In summary: Mzwakhe Mbatha was born in 1935 near Umnini Holiday Camp, Natal. Mbatha left school in Standard II. As a young boy he carved utilitarian objects
Mzwakhe Mbatha was born in 1935 near Umnini Holiday Camp, Natal. Mbatha left school in Standard II. As a young boy he carved utilitarian objects such as wooden spoons, knives and headrests.He was inspired to make non-functional objects by a piece of wood which he discovered in the veld that reminded him of a bending female figure.
Mbatha worked for a time at yuis Botha Airport, Durban, where the aeroplanes provided further inspiration for his sculpture. He presently lives in the Umnini area of Natal and works in jacaranda, guava tree and other locally available woods which he 'brands' with a heated on. He has exhibited at the African Art Centre, Durban.
Collections: DAMl' JAG
References
- Sack, S. (1988). The Neglected Tradition, Johannesburg: Johannesburg Art Gallery.
