Artists

Trevor Makhoba was a prominent South African artist known for his striking and socially conscious paintings. Born in Umkhumbane in 1956 and raised in Umlazi, south-west of Durban, Makhoba grew up in a period of intense social upheaval, which deeply influenced his work. Largely self-taught, his artistic talent was recognized early by his mother, a teacher and artist herself. Makhoba's paintings, often a blend of social realism and the surreal, commented on the hardships of life, particularly for Black South Africans, drawing on personal experiences and the broader socio-political landscape.

After struggling in various jobs, including as a prison warder and insurance representative, Makhoba began painting full-time in the late 1980s. He found significant support from the African Art Centre in Durban, where his unique style quickly gained attention. In 1996, he won the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Award, cementing his place in the South African art world. Makhoba's work has been exhibited globally, and his legacy as both an artist and mentor continues to influence contemporary South African art. He passed away in 2003, leaving behind a powerful body of work and a lasting impact on the artistic community.