In the quiet village of Makgori, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Mahikeng, a remarkable journey of artistic talent and determination is taking shape. Belinda Mogokonyane, affectionately known as 'Belinda The Artist' is making waves in the art world with her stunning creations. Her story is a testament to the power of self-belief and dedication to one's craft.
Mogokonyane's journey as an artist began at the tender age of five when she was in Grade R. Drawing came naturally to her, and her sketches of people, animals, cars, and other subjects were not just child's play but a precursor to a remarkable talent that would flourish over the years. It was when she was 10 years old that Belinda took a photo of herself as a baby and turned it into a beautiful artwork.
It was at that moment she realised her artistic gift. Her artistic journey received a significant boost in 2020 when she revisited drawing herself and managed to capture her image with astounding precision. Encouraged by her growth, Mogokonyane decided to take her passion to the next level by starting a business dedicated to drawing. It did not take long before clients started seeking her artistic skills.
What sets Mogokonyane apart from her cronies in the arts sector, is her relentless dedication to honing her craft. She began her journey using only pencils for her creations, however, she has since expanded her repertoire to include colourful works of art. This dynamic evolution is a testament to her unquenchable thirst for growth and innovation.
Speaking about her journey, Mogokonyane reflected on the aspects of being an artist that she cherishes the most. "What I love about being an artist is that it allows you to share your art with the world. You can set your schedule for it, and if you work hard, you could become well-known," she explained. Art has always played a pivotal role in helping individuals develop and enhance their skills.
For her, the valuable skills she has cultivated include the ability to draw from memory and imagination, a penchant for resourcefulness when acquiring art materials, and the continuous pursuit of learning from other artists, often turning to YouTube for inspiration. Mogokonyane's journey extends beyond her artistic creations.
On November 11, 2021, she ventured into the world of fashion with her brand, Belinda The Artist Clothing Brand (BTA). This brand has become a reflection of her identity as an artist, offering a range of products, including T-shirts, sweaters, hoodies, caps, hats and beanies. Her vision for the future is to establish her shop, becoming a hub for creativity and self-expression.
Recently, she also added painting to her repertoire, demonstrating her boundless creativity and adaptability. Her journey began with humble origins, as she initially struggled with limited art materials, armed with just a single pencil and an eraser. However, the unwavering support of her family, including her mother, uncles, and aunts, brought her much-needed materials and encouragement.
Challenges such as shading may have temporarily slowed her down, but Mogokonyane’s determination never wavered. She believes in the power of self-confidence and unwavering persistence as key drivers of her artistic growth. One of her most remarkable achievements has been her ability to capture the essence of well-known celebrities through her art.
Her portfolio boasts stunning portraits of notable figures like MFR Souls, AKA, Valdo, Motsetserepa, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Karri, Connie Ferguson and Nelson Mandela. Her unique approach to capturing the essence of these individuals has not only earned her acclaim but also piqued the interest of more celebrities, who are now placing orders for their artistic renditions.
She advised young, aspiring artists by stating, “Firstly, they should believe in themselves and put God first. Always practice, stay at home, and focus on art. They must stay away from distractions like taverns and prioritise what they love.” Mogokonyane’s journey is a source of inspiration for artists and dreamers everywhere.
It is a story that exemplifies the transformative power of talent, dedication, and unwavering belief in one’s abilities. As her journey continues, the world eagerly awaits to see what masterpieces she will create next and what new heights she will reach in her artistic endeavours.
