A young artist brings stories to life through art

Phola – At just 27 years old, Siphesihle Templeton Jiyane has turned a simple pencil into a voice of hope, emotion and transformation.

Known by his brand name, I CAN DRAW U, Jiyane is a self-taught visual artist whose work speaks to heart, proving that art can rise from humble beginnings and touch lives across communities.

“My love for art began with cartoons, especially Dragon Ball Z. I used to spend hours sketching characters like Vegeta and Son Goku, trying to capture their movement and energy. I didn’t have fancy tools, just a pencil and paper but I had passion,” he says. “My teachers and friends were amazed. They used to ask me to draw their faces during break time. That’s when I realised this gift was something special.”

But the road wasn’t easy. Teaching himself realism required patience and long hours of practice. “There were times people told me art wouldn’t take me anywhere. But I kept going because I knew I was created to create.”

One of his most touching moments came when a client cried after receiving a portrait of her late father. “That moment reminded me why I do this,” he says.

His favourite work is a self-portrait titled, Reflections, symbolising perseverance and growth — a mirror of his life’s journey.

Jiyane has already drawn portraits for well-known figures such as Zozibini Tunzi, actors from The Wife series and local leaders like Chief Mhlekwa Mahlangu and Elie Matjie known for community outreach.

Jiyane’s art has been showcased at various events and exhibitions, including the Excel Grow Programme in Ogies, hosted by Blue Mining, and national celebrations such as Heritage Day at the Union Buildings and Youth Day (June 16). “It was surreal seeing people from across the world connect emotionally with something I created with my hands,” he recalls.

Beyond recognition, Jiyane’s greatest dream is to build something lasting, a creative home for young artists in Mpumalanga. Through I CAN DRAW U he is working to create a multi-purpose art hub that will train youth in drawing, entrepreneurship and storytelling.

He wants young people to see creativity as a path to independence. “Being an artist doesn’t mean you are broke or overlooked,” he says. “It means building something of your own.” Through mentorship and workshops, he hopes to teach skills such as pricing, branding and storytelling tools that turn raw talent into opportunity.

Looking ahead, he hopes to host his own exhibition and continue collaborating with local poets like Quinton Mchunu and Humphrey Makhubu to merge words with images. “I believe art should serve, not just the artist, but the people. I want to start mentorship programmes that teach both artistic skill and life direction.”