Hailing
from Soweto, South African artist Tsholo “Splash” Motong creates
vivid, fabric-rich artworks that reflect the cultural vibrancy of
township life. A trained fashion designer, Motong merges textile
collage and painting to portray everyday scenes and heroic figures
rooted in African identity. His early creative influence was his
grandmother, whose sewing and vegetable-selling inspired his love for
colour, fabric, and storytelling.
Motong’s
signature technique involves cutting and layering textiles—such as
Shweshwe, Kalanga, Swazi, and Ghanaian prints—into bold,
mosaic-like portraits. These materials, sourced from across the
continent, celebrate pan-African identity while giving new purpose to
recycled fabric. His works often center on African women, drawing
from the strength and spirit of his grandmother, transforming them
into icons of resilience and beauty.
Nicknamed
“Splash” for his joyful use of colour,
Motong infuses his
canvases with life, rhythm, and energy. His art captures the soul of
Johannesburg and Soweto—from bustling streets to quiet
moments—offering a vibrant, unifying vision of African heritage.
His solo show Faces of Soweto and other exhibitions
highlight a unique voice championing diversity, culture, and
environmental mindfulness.