Nelson Makamo

Nelson Makamo was born in Nylstroom (now Modimolle), Limpopo province, in 1982. Makamo moved to Johannesburg to join the Artist Proof Studio in January 2003. He was the recipient of the Johnson and Johnson bursary (2005) and the Pinpointone Human Resources Scholarship (2005). Makamo has exhibited in group and solo exhibitions in South Africa, France, Italy, America, Netherlands and Scotland. His first solo exhibition, Walk with Me, was held at the Obert Contemporary Gallery in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg. His most notable group exhibition was alongside established South African artists in Ten Years of Printmaking: David Krut Print Studio in 2006. Invited artists included David Koloane, Colbert Mashile, Deborah Bell and William Kentridge. Makamo has recently exhibited with emerging young artists Lehlohonolo Mashaba and Senzo Shabangu in My City exhibition, curated by Andile Magengelele. Makomo’s commissioned works include a series of Lekas Lekalakala’s portraits for a chamber Lekalakala opened at Potgietersrus (now Mokopane), in 2006. Other commissioned works include portraits of Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, and Walter Sisulu, for Matasis Investment Holdings. Matasis was named after the above mentioned political figures. Makamo’s work forms part of a few collections, including those of fashion mogul Georgio Armani, musician Annie Lenox and Oprah. Makamo was Art South Africa’s Seventh Bright Young Thing for 2007 and appeared on the cover of Time magazine earlier this year.