Baba Tjeko

Baba Tjeko (b. 1985) is a multidisciplinary South African artist who works between Parys and Johannesburg. His artistic journey began as a cartoonist and illustrator, contributing to community and national publications. This early foundation lead him to study Creative Multimedia, specializing in Advertising Design. Today, Tjeko's work spans various disciplines, including drawing, painting, sculpture, animation, and design, showcasing a deep versatility and a broad creative scope.

Tjeko's art reflects his fluid and intuitive approach to creativity. Rather than confining himself to a single style, he allows his work to evolve naturally, guided by energy and essence. While his geometric art, notably influenced by the traditional Basotho Ditema pattern, has gained recognition, he embraces diverse mediums and styles to authentically express his ideas. This creative freedom is at the core of his practice, as Tjeko's prioritizes the emotional energy and authenticity of work over rigid conformity.

His work is also a powerful tool for inclusivity and social commentary. By amplifying marginalized voices and focusing on the human experience, Tjeko celebrates the spirit of connectedness and Ubuntu. His pieces often reflect on people, identity, and nostalgia, weaving together personal memories and share cultural experiences. Despite these overarching themes, Tjeko is equally driven by a love of colour, form, and composition, seeking creative liberation in the act of making art for art's sake.

At the heart of Baba Tjeko's artistic philosophy is a desire for his work to evoke the warmth, simplicity, and freedom associated with the feeling of home. He rejects the notion of classism or superiority in art, instead embracing humility and equality. Through his art, he seeks to connect with the inherent value and dignity of every individual, making his work not only visually engaging but deeply human in spirit.