Talent not held back by disability

by Thandanani Mhlanga (FJP reporter)

Siyasamkela Toli is a 27 year old painter from Cofimvaba in Transkei. He and two other friends have formed a partnership that’s seen them draw crowds daily at the National Arts Festival, Village Green in Grahamstown.

What sets them apart from other artists is not only their incredible talent but that all three of these men have some form of disability. Toli and his partners, Zolisa Dyosini and Thomson Langaliseki, all met at the Vukuhambe School for the Physically Challenged in 2002 and matriculated in 2006.

The National Arts Festival was the first time they have ventured into the commercial side of their art. Up until now, they had done it for the shear enjoyment. “We didn’t think we were good but it was better than staying at home, we want to make something of our lives”, says Dyosini.

They were accompanied here by a driver, Victor Mntonisi who seems very protective of them. When I ask him if people are more inclined to buy their paintings because of their disabilities he says, “People buy because they know a disability is hard to live with.

It’s difficult for them to work jobs where they have to lift heavy things, but these kids are here everyday doing the best with what they have,” said Mntonisi. The results of the hours they spend on their paintings are truly impressive. What is more admirable however is that they refuse to ignore their disabilities but instead use it to inspire others.

Before I Left I asked Dyosini if they want to be known as painters or as disabled painters. He gave me a puzzled look as if the answer should be obvious he said. “We don’t mind being known as disabled painters, because that’s what we are,” he said.

Pic: Thandanani Mhlanga