Ras Silas Motse may be an artist based in the Western Cape, but his roots run deep into the Free State earth. Having started his career as a cartoonist in the school benches of Motlatla Primary School in Thaba Nchu, Motse has just completed his most exciting collaboration to date, with none other than Lamborghini South Africa, in celebration of the brand’s 60 years in the country.
“Art saved me,” said the CUT alumnus, “the ability to use it as a voice to respond to socio-economic issues pushed me to authentically tell stories and heal people.” Motse also explained that “this ability gave me the means to help others, using it as a tool to fight back and escape reality”.
Motse describes his unique signature style, which he calls “Afrikan Geometry”, as a combination of his emotions, background, experiences, and “what happens in space and time”. The visual artist is inspired by his favourite art styles, namely Pop Art, Contemporary, and Modern Art, to create striking works that represent energy within time and space. “I hope that people experience my art and interpret it based on what they feel and see,” said Motse, further describing his work as “ke mosebetsi wa badimo (the work of our ancestors)”.
Motse called his collaboration with the Italian supercar manufacturer “fitting”, further stating that “the representation of bravery, authenticity and the unexpected runs through both Lamborghini and I. It is actually extremely exciting to see such a huge brand, and seeing what they stand for through your work,” he said.
Inspiring the next generation of artists, Motse inspired young artists to “be authentic, be you and do you”. He also encourages them to have their “own voice, be confident, and become consistent. Art is calling.”
Looking forward, Motse hopes to have his studio back and running soon, and wants to continue to exhibit, travel, and paint murals in his own unique way. On top of all of this, he is working on a fashion brand that represents his “Afrikan Geometry”. To view Ras Silas Motse’s work, and follow his adventures in art creation, head to his Instagram account, @rassilasmotse_ studios.
Warren Hawkins
