Vendor Art in The Big Issue #325 – AMAZING SOUTH AFRICANS EDITION – is based on the theme for the artists to imagine an inner garden of peace – and we hope you’ll find that peace, when you connect to their work.
The Art Theme for the vendor artists each month is set by Elaine Millin, who runs the art education programme at The Big Issue.
Quote: “Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say that I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us and the world will be as one.” – John Lennon
Vendor Artist Batsi Jorofani has his work featured above, and here is some information about him. His painting is titled: “Quiet time reading”.
Batsi Jorofani
Batsi joined The Big Issue in 2009 after moving to South Africa in 2006.He was born in Mozambique, where he spent most of my childhood, and later moved to Zimbabwe. Unlike many foreign brothers and sisters, he didn’t settle in Johannesburg, but came straight to Cape Town as he felt it was a safer option and this is most important for him as he is the breadwinner for his family back home.
“I would love to pursue art as a career. I love it with all my heart; it defines me. Art makes me feel like I’m free and I’m able to express my thoughts and feelings through it. I’d like to get into the industry and exhibit my paintings. On the other hand, I’d also love to get into social development programmes for kids. I can help out with art or sport. I believe that with a little guidance, children – and the entire African continent – can have a bright future. In my spare time, I enjoy relaxing at home or meeting up with friends.
My journey at The Big Issue has been a wonderful experience; I’m truly grateful. Being a Big Issue entrepreneur shaped my life, as I was heading nowhere.”
Other Vendor Artists in The Big Issue #325
Solomon Masoso – “Peace in the blood”
Thabisa Xwethu – “Crazy Lizard”
Nocwaka Mbeki – “A farm”
Elsie Ntsini – “Trees”
PLEASE buy a copy of THE BIG ISSUE #325 and see their ONGOING SHOUT OUT for support ! And why not buy a work of Vendor Art.
WHAT: The Big Issue #325 – AMAZING SOUTH AFRICANS EDITION
WHEN & WHERE: January – February 2024
Available from your favourite vendor across the city. Anyone outside the city of Cape Town can buy the magazine nationally at selected Spar and Pick n Pay stores. Anyone outside of Cape Town can also buy the magazine here.
Don’t forget: you can buy The Big Issue with your smartphone! Visit for a step-by-step guide.
INFO: E bigissue@mikatekomedia.co.za | Visit | Editorial: Editor Laura Jones, 021-461-6690 | Advertising/Marketing: Derek Carelse at derekcarelse@mweb.co.za
THE BIG ISSUE BUMPER HOLIDAY EDITION #324
The WHAT, WHY & WHERE of the
arts scene in around Cape Town
see the 2023 art craft + museums_map
and listen in to the Sanlam
Arts Round Up Fridays @17:30
on Fine Music Radio FMR 101.3fm
