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Woza Moya is an economic empowerment project of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust. Sign up to our Newsletter

Crafts that empower, uplift and inspire.

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Artist Profile – Tholakele Dlamini – Hardwire Basket Weaver

Tholakele Dlamini

Hardwire Basket Weaver

ARTIST PROFILE – Tholakele Dlamini

Tholakele Dlamini is a remarkable craftswoman from Kwa-Zulu Natal whose story is as inspiring as her art. Tholakele’s journey began in 2002 when she learned the intricate skill of wire weaving from the talented Mr. and Mrs. Nkosi. She quickly embraced this art form with passion and creativity, captivating customers with her beautiful wire bowls.
 
In her hometown of KwaMashu, she attracted the attention of buyers who appreciated her unique designs. However, life took a turn, and she paused her artistic endeavors to secure a steady job as a kitchen helper, dedicating herself to caring for her grandchild.

As her grandchild began attending preschool, Tholakele found herself with newfound time and optimism. But just as she started to regain her footing, the Covid pandemic struck in 2020, leading to the end of her job. Rather than be discouraged, Tholakele seized this challenging moment as an excellent opportunity to reignite her passion for weaving.

Her resilience and creativity shine brightly as she returns to her craft with renewed energy. Tholakele’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative nature of art, inspiring us all to embrace our passions, no matter the obstacles we face.

Article written by Sinethemba Ndimande, following her interview with Tholakele during January 2025.

ArtBank intern Sinethemba Ndimandi interviewing hardwire basket weaver Tholakele Dlamini.
Tholakele Dlamini holding 2 of her skillfully made hardwire bowls.
Tholakele Dlamini holding 2 of her skillfully made hardwire bowls.
Hardwire-and-telephone-wire-bowl-in-vibrant-orange
Tholakele Dlamini holding her large 53cm story hardwire bowl masterpiece. On her right is Joe Elefu, our Woza Moya shopkeeping, holding once of Tholakele's smaller bowls.
Hardwire-zulu-shallow-telephone-wire-basket
Tholakele Dlamini holding 2 of her wire picture bowls brought into Woza Moya during July 2024
HARDWIRE BOWLS AT WOZA MOYA
 
As at February 2025, Woza Moya has 11 hardwire basket & tray weavers (10 woman & 1 man) who visit us on a monthly basis. Each weaver has their unique style and arrives with their work for the month. These bowls are time consuming to make, so in a month a weaver might produce 1 large basket or up to 3 smaller ones.
 
We recognise the time and skill that goes into making these hardwire baskets and are assisting the crafters to get the prices they need to make this labour-intensive art economically viable.
 
Please visit our online hardwire bowl catalogue to see the hardwire bowls currently available.
 
We do sell some smaller, less expensive picture bowls on our online store.