'Like a jazz musician who can depart from the original melody altogether and improvise on its harmonic base, I create a well-balanced final artwork with interesting textures, perspective and dimensions by juxtaposing pieces from different original backgrounds'1

Nhlengethwa studied art at the Rorke’s Drift Art Centre and later taught part-time at Fuba winning the Standard Bank Young Artist Award in 1994.

Initially influenced by American artist, Romare Bearden, who drew inspiration from jazz, the young artist found a wellspring of expression in collage. This, in combination with paint and drawing, has contributed to his unique and recognisable style.

The subject of his work ranges widely, but his message can be described as expressive social realism. The title is simple and connotes the great burden someone of this socio-economic class must carry on a daily basis in order to survive and move from the periphery of society to centre stage.

 1. David Koloane. (2004) 'Sam Nhlengethwa', in Sophie Perryer (ed.) 10 Years, 100 Artists: Art in a Democratic South Africa, Cape Town: Bell-Roberts in association with Struik. Page 274.