By: Zethu Gweva
An artist from Mdantsane NU 2 Tando Cekiso, 24, owner of the brand called Black Inc handed over a portrait he made of Dj Tira at EKoneni Butchery on Saturday.
The 24-year-old artist who is currently doing his second year in Information Technology (IT) at the Walter Sisulu University said he was overwhelmed with emotions as Tira is his role model and it was an honour handing him the portrait.
“I was so overwhelmed with emotions when I finally saw him. I felt like my dream came true in the blink of an eye. I handed the portrait over to him on stage during his performance and he gave a shout out to Black Inc,” said Cekiso.
According to Cekiso, it took him three days to complete the portrait and it was also a token of appreciation as he was celebrating 21 years in the music industry.
“It took me three days to finish the drawing, having to also include the brands that were sponsoring the event. The drawing was to celebrate his 21 years in the industry and the amount of work he has done,” he said.
Talking about the journey of the brand “Black Inc” Cekiso’s colleague Loyiso Gcaza said the brand has grown a lot, from making two or three portraits a month with no proper working tools and sometimes not even getting paid.
“Now Black Inc gets orders every week from all over South Africa and having so many people following and sharing Black Inc’s work on social media has been amazing,” he said.
In-addition Gcaza said there are a lot of artists doing the same thing Cekiso does but what makes him and his portraits stand out is the amount of passion he has for his craft.
“Talent can only take a person so far but his passion is key,” he added.
When BCM News asked Cekiso how much his drawings cost and where he advertise his work he said he prices vary and he utilises social media to showcase his art.
“I do sell art. I cannot really mention the prices because of the variety of work that I do. Prices vary in size and the type of artwork that I am commissioned to do,” he said.
Gcaza expressed that they have big plans for the brand but this year’s plans were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.
He added that he appreciates the support they receive from the people of East London as they told DJ Tira that the portraits are not only from them but also from the people of East London.
“The support has been amazing especially from East London and we appreciate it, thus doing the portrait for Dj Tira this past weekend.”
“It was more of something from East London more than it being from us and he has very happy to hear that,” Gcaza added.
To get in touch with Black Inc, Whatsapp 063 419 5246 for commissioned portraits and enquires only or follow social media, Facebook page: BLACK INC, INSTAGRAM: @BLACKINC and TWITTER: @cekiso_tando.