SELLO LETSWALO
Sello Ronald Letswalo (b. 1993, Limpopo, South Africa) is a dynamic multimedia artist whose work explores personal and cultural narratives through the innovative use of found and recycled materials, particularly steel. He graduated from Tshwane University of Technology in 2017 with a B-Tech in Fine and Applied Arts and is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Visual and Creative Arts at STADIO Higher Education.
Letswalo’s practice is rooted in recycling and upcycling. By transforming discarded materials into sculptural paintings, he gives new life and meaning to objects, while exploring their histories and previous contexts. His work often engages with dance—spanning traditional, spiritual, and contemporary forms—and incorporates traditional mediums such as oil paint on salvaged steel, demonstrating both technical skill and conceptual depth.
Through his art, Letswalo examines themes of African identity, cultural rituals, and the role of women in South African townships. His use of industrial and repurposed materials adds texture, depth, and visual intrigue while emphasizing sustainability and the creative possibilities of everyday objects.
Over the past five years, Letswalo has exhibited extensively, participating in national group shows, art fairs, and competitions, alongside three international exhibitions. He has collaborated with multiple arts organizations and currently holds residencies at the Spier Art Trust and the Bag Factory Studio Residency (RMB Talent Unlocked 2024). He is also developing a new sculpture series for Sculpture X and Rooftop XI exhibitions.
In 2025, Letswalo was selected for the Art.co.za Watch List and named a finalist for Nando’s Creative Exchange, affirming his growing presence in the contemporary art scene. His work continues to resonate for its evocative storytelling, thoughtful use of materials, and commitment to exploring the intersections of culture, history, and identity.
