Hargreaves Ntukwana

Hargreaves Ntukwana was a South African artist born on 17 June 1938 in Crown Mines, Johannesburg. He grew up in the area and went to school there. His father wanted him to study medicine, but Ntukwana chose to follow his passion for art and music instead. To support himself, he worked as a messenger and clerk while studying fine art. He also travelled to Toledo, Spain, where he learned at an artists’ colony under a master teacher. Later, he continued developing his skills under artists such as Cecil Skotnes and Mel Edwards.

Ntukwana became known for a unique painting method. He blew diluted oil paint onto paper, wiped away extra paint, and then added ink details once the surface was dry. His work often showed township life and human figures, using materials like oil, ink, charcoal, clay, and wood. He first became widely known when he designed the album cover for Underground in Africa by Dollar Brand. He also worked with singer Letta Mbulu and created costume designs for the show Black and White is Beautiful, which toured internationally with Welcome Msomi.

Ntukwana held his first solo exhibition in Johannesburg in 1967. After that, he exhibited widely in South Africa and around the world, including in London, Paris, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States. His work became especially popular in the USA, where he toured and exhibited often. He also showed his art at places like the Oglethorpe University Art Gallery. In addition to painting and sculpture, Ntukwana was a talented musician who played the double bass, saxophone, and piano. He also worked as a photographer and lecturer, teaching about South African art in both South Africa and overseas.

Hargreaves Ntukwana lived in Dlamini, Soweto, for many years. He passed away in 1998, leaving behind a strong legacy as a creative and multi-talented artist whose work reached audiences across the world.

References:

GEMS OF AFRICA GALLERY. (2026). South African Artist Hargreaves Ntukwana. [online] Available at: http://www.gemsofafricagallery... [Accessed 21 Apr. 2026].

Capegallery.co.za. (2026). Artist HARGREAVES NTUKWANA, The Cape Gallery. [online] Available at: https://www.capegallery.co.za/... [Accessed 21 Apr. 2026].

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