“I’m planning to open my own art gallery so that I can display my work and the work of others”.

Caption: Dzulani holding his 3D traditional hut houses in Pretoria

31-year old Dzulani Trevor Sidogi was born and raised in Tshipako village (situated outside of      Thohoyandou, Venda), Limpopo. He attended Ndikandathi Primary School and later attended Tshivhase Secondary School but completed his matric at Ramugondo School. Unfortunately he couldn’t take his studies further to university due to lack of funds.

His love of creating sculptures began at the tender age of 10 years. At some point, his passion became a distraction during classroom sessions. He would scribble on school books and desks, creating animals and also other things that would come to mind.

Dzulani got his recognition for his extraordinary sculptures in 2010 where his Moses Mabhida Stadium model was featured on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook and making headlines but his fame was short lived.

In 2013, Dzulani experienced attacks from strangers around Pretoria claiming he was a foreign national trying to push his luck.

“Most people do not believe that I am South African because of my good art. They believe talented people who create stuff and sell them in public spaces are either from Zimbabwe or Mozambique.”

Dzulani is currently in his village and is pleading with anyone willing to assist with sponsorship or funding for his work.

“I’m planning to open my own art gallery so that I can display my work and the work of others. Now I’m looking for sponsorship so that I’ll achieve my dream”.

By Makhaukani Tshavalala