Ntsumi Ya Vutomi by Blessing Ngobeni
Ntsumi Ya Vutomi meaning “Messenger of experience” in Tsonga, sheds light on the unfulfilled promise of a more equal society, as envisioned by Nelson Mandela. Through his art, Blessing Ngobeni dives into the heart of humanity, searching for the inner essence that connects us all. His exceptional career is marked by a deep exploration of culture, tradition, history, memory, and the presence of ancestors and spirits.
Explore the artist's journey from prison to poverty and how it has profoundly influenced his art. Through deconstruction and reconstruction, he unveils the essence of each person, using paintings, sculptures, installations, and videos to dive into emotions, memories, and personal stories.
Join us at Ntsumi Ya Vutomi as we celebrate the transformative power of art through the craftmanship of Blessing Ngobeni.
The 2020 Standard Bank Young Artist for Art, Blessing Ngobeni, is proof that above all else, innovation and perseverance will see you come out on top, no matter your background.
Blessing Ngobeni was born in the small town of Tzaneen, located in Limpopo. He moved to Johannesburg at a very young age, where he experienced many hardships, from being homeless, to serving time in prison, which he describes as “the usual South African story. “He has since built an exceptional and unique career in the South African art industry, bringing with him a unique style and a critique of political regimes. As a result of his exceptional work and dedication to his practice, Ngobeni received the highly prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Award for visual Arts in 2020.
