Nelson Makamo

Nelson Makamo is a Johannesburg-based artist born in Limpopo, South Africa, where he dedicates his art to amplifying the voices of African children. Over a career spanning sixteen years, Makamo has risen as one of the world's most sought-after, young visual artists. His diverse portfolio includes, but is not limited to acrylic, print, watercolor, and charcoal drawings, with a keen focus on storytelling through candid portraits of children, capturing the resilience and beauty inherent in the human spirit.

Trained at the Artist Proof Studios in Johannesburg, Makamo's artistic journey began with three years of studying printmaking, providing a solid foundation. Continuing to evolve, he experimented with various materials, eventually finding his signature medium in charcoal. Makamo's unconventional work ethic embraces creative spontaneity, steering clear of detailed plans in his artistic process. Influenced by artists like Dumile Feni, Picasso, and Van Gogh, Makamo's globally acclaimed collections have graced exhibitions in South Africa, the USA, France, Italy, the Netherlands, England, and Scotland. His artwork challenges stereotypes in depicting African children, finding a place in prestigious collections worldwide.

Beyond the canvas, Makamo's impact extends to mainstream recognition, including an appearance on 'The Daily Show with Trevor Noah' and gracing the cover of Time magazine. Celebrated for creating a platform for young African artists to communicate through their art, Makamo's portraits exude strong emotions, reflecting the conviction, prowess, and determination of young Africans. His mixed-media style and unique mark-making technique distinguish him as a trailblazer in contemporary visual art, reshaping global perceptions of what it means to be an African child.