Naledi Modupi talks art, her style and South Africa living.

H: Hey Naledi, I hope you’re good. How are you feeling?  

NM: Hey, I’m good, thank you. Feeling blessed and grateful. 

H: When did you start painting and have you always enjoyed it?

NM: I started painting from a really young age, I actually genuinely can't remember - I've always been super creative and experimental with anything and everything art related. There’s nothing i enjoy more than painting and drawing - i've always thought and believed that that's where i can truly be myself, and express myself fully. 

H: How was it like starting out as an artist? How did sharing your work to the public at the start feel?

NM: It took me a while to fully accept that I'm an artist, I've always felt insecure about sharing my work until a few years ago.and how the public received my work was truly so overwhelming(in an exciting and good way). My experience ever since has been so great, sharing my work and truly taking pride in my work has also played a significant role in my confidence as an artist.

H: Your work is incredible and we love your style. What would you say is the most valuable thing you've learned over your career so far?

NM: BE TRUE TO YOURSELF. Art can be a form of therapy and a truly freeing experience - this can only happen if you allow it to be your true voice, thoughts and feelings. Throughout my career, I noticed how simple it is to imitate others, but it surely can be crippling to not be yourself. 

H: Where were you born and where do you call home? 

NM: I'm from Johannesburg, South Africa. Born and bred in Johannesburg. Anywhere where my family is - I call home. 

SHOP NALEDI’S ART

H: What is life in SA like? What’s your favourite food?

NM: South Africa is filled with so much culture and diversity. There's so much to learn, see and experience. I absolutely love being South African, with its challenges, there's so much more to love and be proud of. Oh! My favorite food? My Favourite Traditional dish has to be Mala Mogudu, which according to google is the intestines of a cow or sheep. 

H: Are there any cool spots you’d recommend when we visit?

NM: The City of Johannesburg has so many cool spots to check out - you definitely have to check out the Maboneng Precinct, Vilakazi Street and the 4th Avenue in Melville for cute places to eat. 

H: Could you take us through your daily routine?

NM: I am 100% not a morning person, so I'm usually up at around 9am. I spend the rest of my morning planning my day, and sorting out admin. Since I've been working from home, my 9-5 marketing job starts at 1pm - till late. I’m mostly creative at night, this is when all my art is created. 

H: Tell us about what your skincare regime consists of. What products do you use? What treatments do you love?

NM: I’m actually not too big on skin care. However, one brand that's always been so kind to my skin, since my early teenage years, is the ‘African Extracts-Rooibos’ Face Wash and Moisturiser. 

H: South African music has such a vibe. Can you share five songs you’ve been jamming to lately?

NM: I'm a huge fan of South African house music, the 5 songs I've been jamming to lately: 

• ‘Love Song 28’ by Jullian Gomes

• ‘Look No Further’ by Ziyon

• ‘Idlozi Lami’ by DJ Obza

• ‘Love Colour Spin’ by Mobi Dixon

• ‘I Want My Soul’ by China Charmeleon

H: How would you describe your personal style?

NM: Very comfortable and Colourful (I’m obsessed with Colours!)

H: Would you say it’s (your style) is reflected in your art?

NM: Definitely, Colours being such a huge part of my style and surroundings - I see a lot of that being translated into my art. 

H: What’s your preferred art medium? 

NM: Acrylic on canvas. I think it allows me to be truly expressive!

H: From all the artwork you’ve created so far, do you have a favorite? 

NM: Yes, One of my digital artworks - titled, ‘Graobe’. The colours work perfectly. 

H: Where do you draw inspiration from? Who inspires you?

NM: I'm inspired by black people and their stories. Who inspires me - great photographers, such as Micheal Aboya.  

H: Last question, are there any personal goals or projects you’re currently working on that you can share with us? 

NM: Yes, I recently started a creative agency that's meant to assist and create spaces for black creatives. I think ultimately, I'm just always trying to contribute to the success of black people, especially in the creative industry.