Paper-mache is an uncomplicated crafting technique that turns old newspaper into art and
with a bit of imagination you can create almost anything and everything. Mogale Lucky
Ntsoane born in Mashite Village at Ga-Mphahle uses old newspapers and flour-water glue to
make papier-mâché crafts. “I uses materials found around the house for my crafts, like egg
cartons, cardboard, paper, boxes, string, crayons, paint, glue, etc. I combine varying paints to
make all other colours. Making these crafts is simple but messy, and they take time to dry.”
Adding oil of cloves or other additives such as salt to the mixture reduces the chances of the
product developing mold. Once dried, details are added. The papier-mâché is then sanded
and painted. “I use flour with some salt added, water, and a large bowl and use spoon to stir up
the mixture. I use newspaper or even paper tissue and add quantifiable layers of paper at a
time and let it dry completely.”
Mogale sells his work to the local community but business is not that good so most of the time
he travels outside the community to sell his work.” I do sometimes get orders, people give me
descriptions of what they want or they just buy what I have already made but the challenge is
that most people in community are unemployed and
not exposed to art”
“I had an opportunity once to exhibit my work
during the Department of Sport Arts and Culture
Polokwane Art Exhibition at SABC Park. It was
an overwhelming experience as I got to present
and sell some of my sculptures.”
Mogale is a self-taught paper-mache sculpture
artists but he says it takes a lot of patience and
skill. “ I started when I was at primary schools but I
stopped for a while because I was just doing it as a
hobby before I realised that I could sell my work
and I resumed when I was in High School. I
work every day to hone my skills would
like to see my work selling, displayed in
big exhibitions or museums one
day.”
www.megaartists.co.za
Aug-Sep 2015
Page 34