Shakes Tembani

Shakes (b 1975) grew up in Crossroads Township, in Cape Town. From a young age he loved art and after much perseverance he eventually carved a niche for himself in the Cape Town art community.

Working in his studio from 9 to 5 every weekday, Shakes uses a deliberately stylised and naïve technique of bold, flat colour, graphic edges and minimalistic tone.

He works from his own reference material including images snapped with his phone and also personal experiences. He portrays everyday moments of township life, and issues faced by ordinary people during the course of their daily routines. He regularly concentrates on the hardworking (often female) figures of his community: solo parents, churchgoers, students and breadwinners.

Determined to improve his art education, Shakes has successfully attended various art courses. He often participates in many solo and group exhibitions in SA and abroad.