By Nosipho Mabuza (Intern)
MANZINI – The art scene in Eswatini is buzzing with excitement as rising visual artist Andile Samkelo Simelane continues to make waves in the entertainment world. After his viral moment with DJ Maphorisa in early June, Samkelo has now captured the attention of South African artist Ciza with a breath-taking portrait presented at the Mdzimba View Shisanyama on Saturday, 7 June 2025.
The young artist, known for his stunning hand-drawn portraits, showcased yet another masterpiece, this time celebrating the influence and energy of Ciza in the music industry. The moment was a highlight of the evening, with Simelane’s art offering a unique and personal tribute to the South African star.
“I’ve always been inspired by Ciza’s music, especially his hit song ‘ISAKA’. I wanted to create something special for him, something that reflects his energy and his influence in our scene,he shared exclusively with us.
For Simelane, choosing who to draw is more than just a creative decision; it’s about honouring those who inspire him. The Ciza portrait took several days to complete, with the artist pouring his heart into every detail to capture not only Ciza’s likeness but his vibrant personality.
“The most challenging part was ensuring I captured his essence, his style, and the vibe of his music,” Samkelo said. “But the final result was so worth it, especially seeing Ciza’s reaction when I handed it over.”
The interaction was nothing short of magical. Despite the nerves, Ciza’s heartfelt appreciation for the portrait made the moment even more rewarding. The audience at Mdzimba View also showed their support, applauding the young artist and flooding his social media with messages of congratulations.
“Seeing the crowd’s reaction and getting such positive feedback online was overwhelming,” Samkelo shared. “This is a big step for me as an artist, and it inspires me to keep pushing forward.”
With his name gaining recognition both locally and internationally, Samkelo is set to continue his artistic journey with plans to present portraits to more artists, including Naledi and Mawelele, who will be performing at the Paka Recreation Club next Saturday.
“I draw inspiration from many talented artists, and I hope to continue celebrating their work through my art,” he said.
Andile Samkelo Simelane’s growing influence as a young cultural ambassador is helping to shine a spotlight on Eswatini’s creative scene. With every portrait, he’s carving a path toward recognition, not only for his skill but for the powerful stories he tells through his art.
