Limpopo Artist With Disability Creates Art With His Mouth
Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba visited Kamogelo Mokoena, a talented mouth artist, at his home in Bakgaga Village, Ga-Maake, located in the Greater Tzaneen Municipality within the Mopani District on Friday.
This visit follows the widespread circulation of visuals showcasing Kamo drawing a portrait of the Premier by the roadside using his mouth.
Kamo Mokoena, a 20-year-old artist from Bokgaga village in Tzaneen, was born with a disability that limits the use of his hands.
His passion for art began when he realised that everything he did would have to be done with his mouth.
“Art was the first idea that came to me, and I decided to try holding a pencil in my mouth. From there, my passion for drawing was born,” he said.
Mokoena uses charcoal pencils to create stunning portraits, dedicating up to two weeks to each piece.
His breakthrough came when he shared a portrait of Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba on TikTok, which went viral, attracting support for his business.
“This is the greatest thing that has happened in my life,” Mokoena expressed.
ALSO READ : Polokwane Municipality Warns Against illegal Land Occupation
Despite facing challenges, such as clients refusing to pay after commissions, Mokoena found a solution by requiring 50% payment upfront.
“People would ask me to draw them, but after I finished, they would not pay me. To tackle this issue, I implemented a strategy requiring clients to pay 50% upfront,” he explained.
Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba praised Mokoena’s talent during her visit to Mokoena’s resident.
“Disability must never be seen as a barrier to success. It is not the absence of ability but rather the presence of a different kind of strength, resilience, and determination. Art has the power to change lives, to elevate individuals from economic hardship, and to shape the identity of a nation.”
“Our visit today is not just to commend Kamo but to encourage him and many others who live with disabilities. We want to send a strong message that their dreams are within reach, and their talents are valuable. Disability does not define one’s future, determination, perseverance, and community support do.” said Ramathuba