"Inner thoughts" Painting

Biography Clement Mohale (b. 1994) is a contemporary artist born in the small town of Bela-Bela, South Africa. His passion for art began in childhood, and he had the honor of being mentored by the late Ernest Ditshego at The African Art Center, where he developed his foundational skills and techniques. In 2007, he won the Manager's Choice Award at the Cashbuild Art At HeArt Community Competition. Over the years, he has participated in numerous exhibitions and special projects, including his 2020 solo exhibition The Creative Adult is the One Who Survived at the NWU Gallery, North-West University, and the 2021 Shattered Ceilings group exhibition presented by The Pencil Club. Mohale was a finalist for The Lockdown Collection Portfolio in 2020, a project in collaboration with Artist Proof Studio and the University of Johannesburg. That same year, he was also a finalist for The Green Recovery Portfolio, a climate-focused project in partnership with the Canada Climate Law Initiative. In 2021, he earned a certificate in Contemporary Art Practice from the CAP Institute under the mentorship of Prof. Elfriede Dreyer and completed a Printmaking certificate at Artist Proof Studio in Johannesburg. He also collaborated with the renowned Esther Mnguni on a special project at the Pretoria Art Museum. Clement's more recent exhibitions include Dear Mama, a powerful tribute to maternal love and memory, and Heroes of My Hero (2025), which pays homage to individuals who inspire and embody courage in everyday life. His work has garnered international recognition, with pieces held in collections across the U.S., Switzerland, Germany, France, England, the UK, and beyond. Through bold color, expressive figures, and compelling narratives, Mohale continues to create art that sparks dialogue on identity, resilience, and social change. Artist Statement My work explores themes of identity, resilience, and transformation, deeply rooted in the everyday experiences of African people. Growing up in South Africa, I became fascinated by the complexities of the human condition, which inspired me to capture and share the stories of the underrepresented. I use a blend of oil and acrylic paints on canvas to communicate my ideas. Through expressive brushwork and layered hues, I convey the weight of lived experience, particularly in children whose eyes carry untold stories. I paint my subjects in monochrome blues because the color holds deep emotional meaning for me.