Siphamandla Ex

Siphamandla Ex is a multi-talented South African artist based in Johannesburg. He currently works from his studio at Asisebenze Art Atelier, although he hails from Bilanyoni village in northern KwaZulu-Natal where he grew up under the care of his grandmother. 

While he has never received any formal education in visual art, he loved to draw from a young age. His passion for his craft has seen him collaborate over the years with a number of artists, including hosting group exhibitions featuring well-established names in the arts. 

In addition to his visual works, Ex is also a music producer/composer, and a basketball player.

Through his works he tries to create an understanding of the human condition in villages and townships. In particular, he uses his art to investigate violence and abuse through the medium of portraiture.

Ex's dream is to start up a non-profit organisation that will keep kids off the streets and provide shelter, nutrition and recreational programmes so that children can have equal opportunities in life.