ENNOCK MLANGENI

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Ennock Mlangeni (26) is a self-taught visual artist who uses waste to create his art and make a living. Influenced by his own life experience, Ennock believes in starting where you are with whatever little you have, to build your dream.

Born in the small rural village of Petrus Steyn in the Free State, Ennock made his move to Sasolburg to live with his grandmother after his parents died when he was seven. Although his family struggled financially and lived off his grandmothers pension he always believed he was destined for great things.

While art can be an expensive craft Ennock says you need to start with the little resources you have. He started doing works with pen and still uses that now to create amazing pieces. He admits that sometimes you need to be even more creative and use anything else at your disposal. Ennock also uses newspapers for his creations. The idea of newspapers came to hi when he spilled coffee on a drawing. That's when he fell in love with the colour of the newspaper where the spill was, so he decided to do newspaper and coffee art. The artist says using waste materials is cost effective and, in the process, he gets to make the world a better place by recycling.

Inspired by his surroundings and life experiences Ennock says the creation of each artwork is different and it’s only when he conceptualises that he decides what material works best for which piece. 

In August 2020 he will host his first international solo show at Uitstalling Art Gallery, an event that was quickly picked up by South-African news stations and press.