Clayton Mpetiwa faced numerous challenges in his life, including financial hardship and losing his truck driving job during the pandemic. Not one to keep his head down for long, he turned back to his love for art, honing his skills to create unique pieces which are gaining recognition.
Hillcrest, South Africa (16 January 2025) – Born into a not-so-comfortable life that required him to grow up very quickly and develop a hustler’s mindset, Clayton Mpetiwa often found solace in the intricacies of art and beadwork.
Growing up in Zimbabwe, he faced financial struggles, but his remarkable talent for drawing shone through from a young age.
After relocating to South Africa, he initially worked as a truck driver. However, when the Covid-19 pandemic changed the routine of life as he knew it, he decided to dive back into his passion for art.
Influenced by sculptor Tafi Aartz, known for turning the mundane into the remarkable, Clayton started producing beautiful and one-of-a-kind artworks to sell and make ends meet.
With the support of Woza Moya & Friends, he found the perfect platform to showcase his work, leading to a blossoming career as an emerging artist. Clayton’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion, even in the face of adversity.
Inspired by his surroundings, Clayton believes that art exists everywhere if one has a keen eye. As for his creative process? He observes an image and then reimagines it through his art, challenging himself to recreate unique shapes and designs.
According to Woza Moya, one of his signature creations is an owl he crafted in 2014 for a client in Cape Town. This piece kickstarted his journey and allowed him to refine his skills over time.
The Woza Moya Artists’ Wall extends its thanks to the 100% Foundation for their continued support and sponsorship, which makes the Artist’s Wall, where Clayton’s work is currently displayed, a monthly event possible.
Sources: Woza Moya & Friends
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