Portrait of Joseph Shabalala by Rasta the painter

Portrait of Joseph Shabalala by Rasta real name Lebani Sirenje

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Rasta, whose real name is Lebani Sirenje, is popularly known for failing to accurately portray his subjects through his paintings. Rasta usually paints portraits of celebrities following their death and displaying the artwork at their funeral. The Zimbabwean-born artist also honours the living ones by painting them.

ALSO READ: Getting to know the painter Rasta real name Lebani Sirenje

Rasta the painter has painted many late celebrities and heroes throughout his entire career of painting. He painted late legends such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Richard Maponya, Neyi Zimu, Pro Kid, Senzo Mayiwa, Winnie Mandela and many more.

His recent portrait of Joseph Shabalala, founder of Grammy award winning group Lady Smith Black Mambazo, is getting some positive reviews from social media. His recent portrait of Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi during her homecoming failed to impress the Twitter streets, but they seem to have forgiven Rasta the painter after impressing them with Joseph Shabalala’s portrait.

“Likewise. I can see the improvement. We are going to learn something very important about belief in self, persistence, and blocking out negativity, from this man. I am impressed that he keeps forging ahead, and this time, while his painting is not perfect, it is better (sic),” – one Twitter user said

Many people on social media have commended his persistence and shows some signs of improving.

Joseph Shabalala was laid to rest at his hometown of Ladysmith this morning. He died last week, at the age of 78, after a long illness. Joseph was honoured with a special official funeral with President Cyril Ramaphosa delivering the eulogy.

Image Courtesy: citizen.co.za

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