In today’s connected and curious world, Africa’s talented creators and storytellers actively contribute to the global creative community and its economy.
Even with a multibillion-dollar creative industry, however, many still struggle to build and grow sustainable careers that can support and improve their quality of life. Sharp-Lee Mthimkulu decided that had to change for illustrators like himself.
First launched in 2019 as an event series in Johannesburg and now evolving into a book series, BY WAY OF ILLUSTRATION (BWOI) has helped illustrators across the continent by making room for conversations on the practice, business and career opportunities of the world of professional illustration.
BWOI’s first book volume captures these stories, actively zooming into the lives, work spaces, career paths, and insights of illustrators to further support and grow their creative community.
Curated by Mthimkulu, the book is a collaboration between Studio Leetchi ZA (Digital agency) and Creative Nestlings (Young African Creative Network), two organizations committed to nurturing African creatives across the globe.
BWOI is a hardcover, coffee table-sized exhibition of 12 experienced African illustrators stories and reveals insider knowledge on how to break into illustration’s world of work and make not just a living, but a life, on the continent and in the diaspora
“As a creative entrepreneur, I see a social impact in creating an environment for teaching and sharing how to tell authentic African stories by using our craft. There is a need to showcase the ability in talent and skills for a world market and inspire locally. Our aim is to provide access and knowledge to upcoming and established creatives so that we can network and navigate the creative landscape together.” – Sharp-Lee Mthimkulu.
Featured illustrators include: Rendani President Nemakhavhani, Togo Ntokozo Langa, Thapelo Grimmz Keetile, Neo Mahlangu, Sthembiso Mpehle, Ndumiso Nyoni, Minenkulu Ngoyi, Masego Rakumakwe, Luthando Mfabe, Lo Cookiemylo Tshangela, Kevin Smith, Sindiso Nyoni and Sharp-Lee Mthimkulu.
Pre-order the book here.
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