Renowned for her mastery of visual storytelling, Thato Tlatsi, walks into the complexities of the human experience through her compelling artwork. Using mediums like ink, charcoal, chalk, and acrylic on canvas, Thato navigates themes of chaos, death, sexuality, and mental health, creating a profound exploration of the intersectionality inherent in these profound aspects of life.
Tlatsi draws inspiration from her own personal experiences, looking inward rather than outward for ideas and concepts. Her artwork often enters around black femininity and body image, aiming to challenge societal norms and explore the multifaceted nature of identity.
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Throughout her creative practice, Tlatsi has experimented with various mediums, including paint, sculpture, photography and drawing. However, she currently finds herself drawn to mark-making in charcoal and ink on canvas. The way these materials behave on the canvas, reminiscent of human skin, fascinates her.
Thato finds that wet ink symbolizes the fluidity and unpredictability of life, as one can never fully control how it will respond to the canvas. Instead, she embraces the marks left behind and interprets them, emphasising the importance of adaptability and resilience.
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Thato Tlatsi’s work has gained recognition and praise both locally and internationally. Her perspective and ability to convey complex emotions through her art have resonated with audiences from diverse backgrounds. Tlatsi’s thought-provoking pieces have been exhibited in galleries and art shows, sparking conversations and inspiring others to reflect on their own existence.
