By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
Mohale Mapoho, known simply as Mohale in the art world, is a young artist from Leribe, whose passion for creation has been a constant companion since his earliest childhood. His journey, from filling his childhood room with drawings to holding his first exhibition, is a testament to the power of nurturing artistic talent and the unwavering belief in one’s creative vision.
Currently pursuing Architecture at Lerotholi Polytechnic, Mohale’s story is a compelling example of how artistic pursuits can link with other disciplines, enriching both the artist and their craft.
“Make friends that hungry smart like you, because you will rise with them.” He mentions, making friends with powerful people has a good impact.
He dedicates that he is loyal, passionate and patient on his success. He recalls in 2022, when firstly started to sell his art work to the interior company.
Mohale’s artistic journey began remarkably early. He recalls picking up a pencil and sketching at the tender age of five, even before starting pre- school. While other children were playing with toys, Mohale was immersed in the world of lines, shapes, and forms. His room became his personal gallery, its walls and surfaces covered with his increasing artistic expressions. This early immersion in art was not just a pastime; it was a fundamental part of his development, shaping his perspective and fueling his creativity.
The formal introduction to Art as a subject in school further solidified Mohale’s passion. He excelled in the subject, finding both joy and validation in his artistic abilities. The recognition and encouragement he received through his achievements in art class provided a crucial boost to his confidence and fueled his desire to explore his artistic potential further. It was through this structured learning environment that his innate talent began to truly blossom.
A crucial moment in Mohale’s artistic development occurred in 2022, after completing Form E. Inspired by a fleeting but impactful eye contact with a girl, he felt compelled to capture her essence on paper. This experience marked a shift in his art, moving from simple sketches to more focused portraiture.
The desire to portray not just physical likeness but also the emotions and stories he perceived in his subject became a driving force in his work. This portrait, born from a moment of connection, represents a significant step in Mohale’s artistic journey, highlighting his ability to translate human emotion into visual art.
The year 2023 brought another milestone for Mohale: his first public exhibition at a fashion expo. This opportunity allowed him to share his work with a wider audience and receive feedback on his unique style. The experience of displaying his art in a public setting, engaging with viewers, and discussing his creative process was invaluable.
It validated his commitment to his art and provided him with the motivation to continue pushing his boundaries. The fashion expo served as a platform, launching Mohale into the public eye and establishing him as an artist to watch.
Mohale’s love for art has been a constant, growing stronger from his early childhood scribbles to his current tertiary-level pursuits. Even as he studies architecture, a discipline that demands precision and creativity in its own right, his passion for visual art remains undiminished. He sees a connection between the two fields, recognising the importance of artistic vision in architectural design. His architectural studies likely inform his artistic perspective, adding depth and structure to his compositions.
One of the most striking aspects of Mohale’s approach to his art is his unwavering belief in its value. He does not negotiate on the price of his art, but rather focuses on the inherent value of each piece. This reflects a deep respect for his creative process, the time and effort invested in each artwork, and the emotional connection he has with his creations. He particularly values his portraits, recognising them not just as representations of individuals but as stories captured in lines and shades.
His commitment to his art extends beyond simply creating; he actively invests in his artistic endeavors. He understands that pursuing a career in art requires dedication, resources, and a belief in one’s own potential.
This investment demonstrates his seriousness about his artistic journey and his confidence in his future as an artist. Whether it is purchasing high-quality materials, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship, Mohale understands the importance of nurturing his talent and providing himself with the tools he needs to succeed.
His story is an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere. His journey, from a child filling his room with drawings to a young artist holding his first exhibition, demonstrates the power of passion, perseverance, and self-belief. His commitment to his craft, his refusal to compromise on the value of his work, and his willingness to invest in his future are all hallmarks of a dedicated artist.
As he continues his studies in architecture while simultaneously pursuing his artistic passions, Mohale is poised to make a significant contribution to the art world. His story serves as a reminder that art is not just a talent, but a journey of continuous growth, exploration, and unwavering dedication. Mohale, the architect of his own artistic destiny, is building a future as vibrant and compelling as his art itself. He posts his work on different social media platforms.