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At work with Richard Mandongwe: Artist

Job title:

Wire and recyled materials artist

Company:

Self employed

Previous occupations:

• Plumber
• Apprentice to artist, Heath Nash
• Recycling project manager at a Cape Town school

My qualifications:

Qualified plumber (but I love the creativity that comes with being an artist)

I financed my studies...

Through help from my parents and I also received a municipal study grant

I love my job because...

• No day or job is the same. I am self-reliant and can provide financially for my family
• I can work in my own time
• I can do ANYTHING - there are no  limits to my creativity!

A typical working day:

I wake up in the morning and think of fun ideas for new products. I am inspired by people around me and other artists.

I have to go and buy wire and beads and I also use recycled material to create artworks.

Some days I sell my art at markets. Clients buy my art or place orders if they want something specific. They give me photos or drawings and I transform these from pictures into wire frames and other art forms.  I also sell my art to dealers for overseas markets.

Highlights of the job:

• Taking a flat piece of wire and transforming it into something wonderful!

Challenges:

• Marketing. Although I have good regular clients, I need to broaden my market to grow my business.

I would recommend art as a career because:

It is practical and you don't need qualifications. Your only limitation is your imagination.

Future Plans:

I am aiming to start an art and curio shop by 2010.