Bulawayo Emerging Artist Spotlight: Langelihle Buhle

In April, I had the pleasure of chatting with a dynamic young creative in Bulawayo who is making waves with her groundbreaking project. Langelihle Buhle, a proud multidisciplinary artist from Nketa, “elokishini,” is steadily carving a name for herself in the city’s vibrant art scene. As a fashion designer, author, and visual artist, Buhle embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience. Her journey began at the tender age of six when a friend introduced her to drawing. That early encouragement blossomed into a lifelong passion for art. By 14, she was exploring various materials under the mentorship of Dumisani Ndlovu, a veteran printmaker and resident artist at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. Ndlovu introduced her to painting, and his guidance helped shape her artistic foundation. Though often questioned for her multidisciplinary approach, Buhle found her unique voice by merging her talents. Her work on fabric has become a cornerstone of her practice, bridging her interests in visual arts and fashion design. Her medium of choice includes acrylics and oils on hard-to-absorb fabrics like Ankara and animal skin. These materials, rich in texture, provide an ideal canvas for her experimentation. Buhle draws inspiration from the sun—a fitting muse, as her name, Langelihle, means "Beautiful Sun." The sun's changing shades infuse her work with light, warmth, and vibrancy, evoking powerful emotions. On April 26, 2023, Buhle showcased her artistic versatility with Ignite the Light in You, a creative project that highlighted her diverse talents. This ambitious event, supported by the Alliance Française de Bulawayo, included the launch of her book A Resolute Dynamite, a collection of her latest paintings, and a fashion show. The well-attended event left audiences mesmerized by her multifaceted artistry. Beyond her work, Buhle finds joy in sharing her creations with those who support her journey. She thrives on curiosity, constantly seeking knowledge and embracing growth. Her addiction to multitasking reflects her relentless drive to explore the depths of her creativity. As an architect by profession and a relentless innovator at heart, Langelihle Buhle is a rising star whose light promises to shine far beyond Bulawayo. Her story is one of courage, versatility, and the transformative power of art. Cliford Zulu is an independent Curator working in Bulawayo