Art and Advocacy: Olwethu De Vos Challenges Perceptions of Aging With Art

The work of South African visual artist Olwethu De Vos thrives at the intersection of traditional technique and contemporary message. In a recent virtual interview on “The Day With Trae” with host Trae Holiday, De Vos shared her journey from studying sculpture and glassblowing to developing a unique "sculptural drawing" signature using woven copper.  

For De Vos, the core concept of her art revolves around multi-faceted healing: spiritual, physical, mental, and systematic. Inspired by conversations with different generations of women, De Vos uses her work to counter the cultural fear of aging and the misconception that a woman’s value diminishes over time, ultimately encouraging a dialogue of restoration and self-confidence.

Beyond her creative practice, De Vos is deeply involved in philanthropy and art direction through the Blessing Ngobeni Art Prize Foundation, which she created out of frustration with the unregulated and often toxic nature of the art industry. As she looks toward reaching an international stage, De Vos continues to advocate for the value of South Africa’s raw talent and art's power to reflect current affairs and provoke meaningful change. 

Learn more about De Vos and her artwork at olwethudevos.co.za

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