Darlington Gwagwagwa (39) has found strength in the twists of wire and shimmer of beads after a xenophobic attack in 2014 claimed the lives of two family members.
A self-taught wire artist, Darlington credits his late cousin and brother who inspired him to open his own business, Afri Crafts, five years ago.
Originally from Zimbabwe, Gwagwagwa moved to South Africa in 2010. Armed with little more than raw talent and a fierce determination to keep his family’s artistic legacy alive, he began shaping wire into works of art.
“My cousin and older brother were doing sculptures of wooden statues and stonework at the Lifestyle Centre,” he recalled.
“It was more like a family business. My brother was an icon in that area of the art industry.”
At first, he crafted lamps adorned with the faces of local heroes. But when the market slowed, he diversified, creating the vibrant wire-and-bead animal sculptures he is known for today. Each piece is shaped by hand, taking at least five hours depending on its size, a testament to his patience and skill.\
Though he has no permanent shop, Darlington’s art is impossible to miss. Locals and tourists alike can find him at Burnedale Market, Salt Rock Market, or along the North Coast’s beaches. His work is rooted in both tradition and resilience.
Recently, inspired by the coastal waters he calls home, he has expanded his range to include small decorative key chains that capture the textures of the ocean and sand. To purchase his work, contact him directly at 063 087 1284.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
