10 Mar 2014

Not everyone can withstand the rigours of handling stinking cow horns and worn out tyres on a daily basis. But this is the life that Mr Galoseitse Metlhaleng has chosen for himself.

The young man from Pilane decided to create beautiful artefacts from cow horns and worn out tyres and sell them to make a living for himself. So he started visiting slaughter houses to collect cow horns and used them to create beautiful artefacts.

“Artists are born with an innate ability to create beauty from ruin. That’s why I am able to take what other people have discarded and use it to create something beautiful that the very same people fork out money for,” he said.

Metlhaleng said he practised his craft until he perfected it, and now he is so good at what he does that sometimes he even surprises himself. From discarded horns, old logs and worn out tyres he is able to create shoes, jewellery and flower pots.

“But my speciality is horns. With horns I am able to make cups, side lamps, paraffin lamps, bracelets, rings and other artefacts.

These are always a hit with customers because one can even ask for a customised design,” said Metlhaleng.

He explained that his profession is all about creativity, which makes the end product appetising and attractive to customers. However, his main worry is that many people just express their appreciation of his works verbally, but don’t pop out money to buy them. Some also complain about price, and Mr Metlhaleng was quick to remind them that artworks by their very nature are very expensive.

Mr Metlhaleng further stated that people have to understand that pieces of art are by their nature expensive because a lot of creativity and labour is put into producing an awesome artefact.

“I have therefore decided to focus on women artefacts like earrings and bracelets because they move very fast,” he said.

Because he loves art, Mr Metlhaleng said he kept on struggling even when the going was tough, adding that some other artists gave up and moved onto something else.

He encouraged those who are just starting their businesses never to give up, saying challenges should be expected especially for start-up businesses.

“It hasn’t been easy, but I will continue doing my work, and even seek more opportunities to display my artefacts, because I love what I do,” he said.

Mr Metlhaleng has not yet applied for the youth grant because he can still afford to buy all the materials that he needs. ENDS